ALE can contribute significantly to achieving the objectives of the new European Democracy Action Plan.
07.09.2020

Adult learning and education for strengthening democratic values

EAEA welcomes the consultation on a European Democracy Action Plan launched by the European Commission. Adult learning and education (ALE) can contribute significantly to achieving the objectives of the new Democracy Action Plan. The public consultation will remain open until 15 September.

Download EAEA’s statement on the consultation.

Non-formal adult learning and education has emancipatory and transformative learning at its core – represented across the traditions of ‘liberal’ adult education, popular education, Nordic ‘folkbildning’ and German ‘Bildung’. The sector’s foundational pillars are built around civic engagement, critical thinking and the promotion of democratic values such as social pluralism and inclusion. It also provides the necessary skills and tools to understand and participate in society. Promoting active citizenship, democracy and participation through ALE is one of the cornerstones of EAEA’s work.

EAEA urges the European Commission to:

  • Embrace a holistic approach to democracy that puts a stronger emphasis on the role of civil society, including in lifelong learning and ALE
  • Recognise the key role of non-formal adult learning and education (ALE) in providing the skills and competences needed for active citizenship, democratic engagement and critical thinking
  • Promote civic education (or ‘citizenship education’) for adults by strengthening this key area of ALE within EU programmes and by allocating specific funding to this area
  • Strengthen civil society in ALE by encouraging the creation of national umbrella organisations in countries where they do not exist yet
  • Protect the space for civil society, to further encourage EU Member States to interact and consult with civil society all over Europe, and to seek civil dialogue with countries outside of the EU

Text: EAEA

07.06.2023 Media release

EAEA Grundtvig Award 2023 highlights best practices in the green transition

EAEA has awarded adult education projects in its 20th annual Grundtvig Awards. This year’s award celebrated Adult Learning and the Green Transition.

17.05.2023 advocacy

European Education Area: Let the EU know about the implementation in your country!

Throughout 2023 and until mid-2024, the European Union will review the state of implementation of the European Education Area, including policy initiatives and strategies in adult learning and education. National reports will play a central role in the review process: this is where you can have a say! Let the European Union know which impact the European Education Area has had in your country!

09.05.2023 inclusion

Valorisation of motherhood skills as asset for empowerment and professional development of women

The MOVE-UP project intends to develop a flexible and quality upskilling pathway for unemployed women who are dedicating most of their time and efforts to the role of mother and who are in need to (re) join education activities and the job market.