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Sexuality education in The Netherlands

SHAPE classifies the sexuality education framework in the Netherlands as progressive. This describes the national policy framework, not how every school delivers it.

Progressive framework

Last checked 02/11/2026 · This is information only, not advice or a recommendation.

  • National framework: Schools must address sexuality and sexual diversity through national attainment targets, while schools retain discretion over teaching methods and materials.
  • Interpretation: The status summarizes the verified policy framework; it does not guarantee uniform classroom delivery.

[Sources: https://www.unesco.org/gem-report/en/peer ; https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/comprehensive-sexuality-education ; https://www.bzga-whocc.de/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/BZgA_IPPFEN_ComprehensiveStudyReport_Online.pdf]

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