The New European Agenda for Adult Learning contributes to a sustainable and just European future.
09.12.2021

New European Agenda for Adult Learning for Europe’s future

EAEA welcomes the Council Resolution on a New European Agenda for Adult Learning. The agenda recognises the need for holistic adult learning and education provision that takes into account the needs to all groups of learners.

Read EAEA’s full statement: Adult Learning and Education is key for the future of Europe (pdf)

The European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA) is happy to support the Council Resolution on a new European agenda for adult learning 2021- 2030, which was adopted by the Council on 29 November 2021.

EAEA underlines the need for adequate support for infrastructure, civil dialogue and funding in adult learning. Adult education should be recognised in its diversity, as also mentioned in the new agenda, but the fragmented ALE landscape should not lead to a (further) reinforcement of fragmented funding structures. We emphasise that long-term and adequate funding of adult education is necessary to ensure a high quality of provision.

EAEA encourages National Coordinators to work directly with civil society organisations to ensure a collaborative community-based approach in the delivery of this key adult learning programme. In addition, we urge all National Coordinators to utilise learner voice as a core element within all activities placing particular emphasis on the voices of people from marginalised and vulnerable communities.

EAEA calls on EU Member States to follow this ambitious European agenda, especially the recommendations for the national level that include a holistic approach as well as inter-ministerial and inter-sectoral cooperation. EAEA and its members are keen to work with all involved levels to implement the agenda.

Text: EAEA

28.07.2025 twin transition

Tools and guide to start your advocacy for the twin transition

Multiple global and European policy agendas recognise the challenges of the digital transition and the green transition, from Agenda 2030 to the European Green Deal. Increasingly, the green and digital transitions are no longer considered separately, but as a twin transition. Adult educators have an important role to play in these transitions.

24.07.2025 projects

Taking a whole-setting approach to climate action plans and projects in education

From June 30 to July 2, the LEVERS – Fostering active engagement in climate education – Horizon Europe project organised a workshop in Brussels on building climate action plans and applying insights to working on climate change through education.

11.07.2025 advocacy

EAEA and Forma.Azione sign a Memorandum of Understanding

EAEA and Forma.Azione have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).