28.11.2019

Implementing the new Agenda for Adult Learning: are we there yet?

On 28 November 2011, the Council adopted its Resolution on a Renewed European Agenda for Adult Learning. Aiming to improve adult education policies and provision, it set out an ambitious strategy for the EU Member States to implement by 2020. EAEA demands a strong follow-up strategy for the agenda that builds on synergies with other EU strategies and frameworks.

For those countries where the renewed European Agenda for Adult Learning (2011) has been fully implemented, adult education structures are comparatively strong. However, many of our EAEA members have stated that the Agenda has only been partially implemented in their country, despite the fact that it should supposedly have been implemented by all EU member states by 2020. A number of other members noted that civil society organisations have had little-to-no influence in the implementation process in their country, despite it being crucial for successful application of the Agenda and its framework.

In a statement about the renewed Agenda, EAEA clarifies that it is essential that there are comprehensive strategies for adult education in Europe in place from 2020 onward. Cooperation between all current European strategies, as well as global frameworks, concerning adult education, EAEA believes, will help to cement values, creating a more holistic approach to adult education policy and provision.

Click here to read the statement in full

02.10.2026 advocacy

Adult Learning for a Changing World

To strengthen adult education worldwide and reinforce commitment to advancing adult learning and education (ALE), while recognising both its challenges and its important role in society, 142 UNESCO Member States adopted the Marrakech Framework for Action (MFA) in June 2022. Four years on from the adoption of the 2022 MFA, we now identify three central issues that EAEA believes deserve more attention: basic skills education, the digitalisation of work and global responsibility.

23.09.2026 key competences

Beyond the tatami: what can judo teach us about our own competences?

Sport and movement build more than physical strength. Read against the European Commission's LifeComp framework, judo is a great example of a practice that develops a wide span of personal, social, and learning-to-learn competences, from self-regulation and empathy to critical reflection and collaboration.

21.09.2026 Artificial intelligence

State of the Union 2026: Why Europe needs to invest in adult learning

Europe's resilience cannot be built only through defence, technology and economic competitiveness. It also depends on sustained investment in adult learning, communities and people's ability to shape change together.