Complexities in the Evolving Right to Education: How Does Private Supplementary Tutoring Fit?

Abstract

Recent decades have brought substantial expansion of private supplementary tutoring (widely known as shadow education). Initially with particular prominence in East Asia, it is now a global phenomenon across countries of all income groups. Social inequalities arise from the inability of low-income households to secure the quantities and qualities of tutoring available to middle- and high-income households. A few governments, concerned about social inequalities and other factors, have tried to suppress private tutoring. However, it is arguable that families have the right to invest in such tutoring. The expansion and implications of private tutoring need stronger consideration from this perspective, with awareness of complexities. To some extent developments are an unintended consequence of well-meaning efforts to promote social equality and human rights.