reeducation

Reeducation is the process of attempting to modify a person's beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors through education, training, persuasion, or other means. It is used in a variety of contexts, from general education and civic instruction to political campaigns and rehabilitation programs. Unlike routine education, reeducation procedures are typically intended to align an individual with a particular ideology, social norms, or programmatic goals, sometimes emphasizing conformity, loyalty, or reform.

Historically, the term has strong associations with state-led campaigns to transform populations. In the 20th century, some socialist and communist governments pursued organized reeducation campaigns aimed at political alignment, social categorization, and suppression of dissent. In China, "reeducation through labor" and related programs sought to detain and reform individuals through education and vocational training; the officially sanctioned program ended in 2013, though other forms of political and ideological instruction have persisted in some contexts. Reeducation has also appeared in criminal justice as a component of rehabilitation and deradicalization programs, focusing on skills training, employment support, and civic education to reduce recidivism.

Critics argue that reeducation can involve coercive or abusive practices, undermine freedom of thought, and produce outcomes that are not voluntary or humane. Proponents contend that structured education and skills training can reduce crime, support reintegration, or prevent radicalization. The ethical assessment of reeducation depends on issues of voluntariness, proportionality, transparency, and human rights protections.