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

05.03.2026 active ageing

The role of adult education in promoting active ageing and building inclusive societies

EAEA welcomes the European Commission's development of the EU Strategy on Intergenerational Fairness and emphasises the pivotal role of adult learning and education in supporting responses to the current age structure changes, fostering active ageing and intergenerational learning.

10.02.2026 EAEA Annual Conference

Introducing EAEA’s 2026 Annual Theme: Resilience and Community-Building

EAEA'S 2026 annual theme is closely linked to current EU priorities, especially the Democracy Package - including the Civil Society Strategy and the Democracy Shield initiative. At a time of rising Euroscepticism and threats to democratic values, adult education has the power to strengthen democracy by promoting civic engagement, critical thinking and participation.

09.02.2026 climate

How learning and action shape a more sustainable society: golden nuggets from neuroscience to foster a constructive climate change debate

On February 4-5, EAEA participated in a learning symposium and keynote speech around climate education research and action, in Geneva, Switzerland. The events were organised in the context of the Horizon Europe LEVERs project, in which EAEA is a partner.