The Paradox of Special Education: Both School Segregation and Inclusive Education are on the Rise

Often provided in special schools and classes, special education has grown rapidly for decades. In contrast, since 2006, 106 countries around the world have ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, which mandates inclusive education, from early childhood to lifelong learning. A contemporary paradox found in many societies is that both school segregation and inclusive education are on the rise. The interdependencies between special education, general education and other institutions along with vested professional interests have thus far hindered the transformations needed to realize inclusive education for all.