Comparative analysis of sex education in different countries of the world and in Georgia

Abstract

In many national curricula, particularly in European contexts, sex education is recognized as an integral educational component aimed at raising awareness, mitigating health-related risks, and upholding fundamental human rights. Comprehensive sexuality education adopts a holistic approach, incorporating aspects of gender, emotional and mental health, relationships, consent, and personal well-being, rather than focusing solely on reproductive health. This study examines the key features of sex education in Norway, Spain, Canada, and Singapore, and compares them with the Georgian context. In countries such as Norway and Singapore, sex education is a compulsory component of the school curriculum, supported by specialized teacher training programs. In contrast, Georgia has yet to adopt a similar approach, largely due to prevailing conservative attitudes within society that continue to influence educational policy. This study identified several key challenges, including the limited presence of sex education topics within school curricula, inadequate teacher training, and societal reluctance to engage in open discussions on the subject. Considering international best practices, the study concludes that Georgia must adopt a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to sexuality education in order to address issues such as early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and sexual violence. The paper emphasizes the necessity of policy reform, teacher training, and community engagement to foster the development of an informed and healthy society.