This working paper examines the rapid expansion of education public-private partnerships (PPPs) amid the global learning crisis and persistent financing gaps, critically assessing claims that PPPs improve efficiency, access, quality and accountability. Drawing on international evidence and case studies, the paper finds that PPPs frequently create misaligned incentives, increase long-term fiscal risks, deepen inequality, weaken labour conditions for teachers and fail to deliver lasting improvements in learning outcomes. Grounded in international human rights law and the Abidjan Principles, the report is structured around three policy scenarios and offers guidance to help governments evaluate, regulate or exit PPPs, ultimately arguing that strengthening well-funded, equitable public education systems is a more reliable path to fulfilling the right to education.

Read the related policy brief in English, Español and François.

Working Paper