Asia-Pacific Regional Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications

Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education

As an intergovernmental organisation with a mandate in higher education, UNESCO is well-positioned to provide Member States with a platform for collaboration to foster dialogue on policy, research and practice in pursuing high quality and inclusive lifelong learning opportunities for all. Since the 1970’s, UNESCO has initiated six regional conventions on the recognition of higher education qualifications with the aim to promote the free movement of students and professionals across borders. International conventions, such as the 1983 Bangkok Convention and the revised Asia-Pacific Regional Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education (2011 Tokyo Convention) reflect a joint commitment to international norms that are developed and agreed upon by UNESCO Member States in the Asia-Pacific region.

As of May 2017, three Member States – Australia, China, and New Zealand – have ratified the 2011 Tokyo Convention. Five Members States are needed for the Convention to enter into force. To promote ratification of the 2011 Tokyo Convention and advance the Education 2030 Framework for Action, delegates and guests from over 30 UNESCO Member States in Asia-Pacific gathered in Sydney, Australia on 17-18 August 2016 for the 14th Session of the Regional Committee on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education in Asia and the Pacific held in conjunction with the Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop on Education 2030. The aim of the 14th Session was to promote the importance of international recognition of qualifications in facilitating mobility.

To learn more about the 1983 Bangkok Convention and the revised 2011 Tokyo Convention, please see the links below, or contact the Secretariat of the Bureau of the Regional Committee at UNESCO Bangkok.

Background

• Regional Convention on the Recognition of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees in Higher Education in Asia and the Pacific (1983 Bangkok Convention)

• Rules of Procedure - Adopted at the First Session of the Regional Committee (1990)

• The International Conference of States (ICS), Tokyo, Japan (2011)

• Asia-Pacific Regional Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education (2011 Tokyo Convention)

Resources

• Toolkit for the Recognition of Foreign Qualifications: A Reference for Asia-Pacific Practitioners (2013)

• Guidelines for National Information Centres: A Reference for Asia-Pacific Practitioners (2014)

Secretariat of the Bureau of the Regional Committee
UNESCO Asia and Pacific Regional Bureau for Education: eisd.bgk@unesco.org