World Wide Change in Inclusive Education Politcies

In Canada, the policies on inclusive education vary across provinces and territories. ​ Some regions, such as New Brunswick and the three northern territories, have adopted inclusive education policies and invested in inclusive practices. ​ These areas are recognized for their progress in implementing inclusive education. However, most Canadian jurisdictions continue to support the special education model, which provides separate paths for learners experiencing disabilities. ​ This approach is seen by some as a barrier to achieving full inclusion. ​

The document highlights that while there is strong progress in certain parts of Canada, resistance to change persists in others. ​ Advocates argue that inclusion should be the common objective, with exceptions made for individual students rather than maintaining alternate paths for groups of learners. ​ Additionally, some school systems misuse the term “inclusion,” treating it as an option within the special education model rather than a fundamental shift toward human rights and social justice in education. ​

Efforts are ongoing to persuade governments and school systems to embrace inclusive education fully, with examples of Canadian expertise being recognized internationally, such as the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board’s move to inclusion.