22.07.2024

EAEA’s take on von der Leyen’s re-election: important commitments on skills and adult learning

EAEA welcomes the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission on July 18. Von der Leyen’s previous Commission has led crucial initiatives to put skills and adult learning at the top of the political agenda, notably the European Year of Skills 2023.

EAEA welcomes the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission on July 18. Von der Leyen’s previous Commission has led crucial initiatives to put skills and adult learning at the top of the political agenda, notably the European Year of Skills 2023. EAEA is pleased to see a renewed commitment to Adult Learning and Education (ALE) among the most prominent priorities of the Political Guidelines for the next European Commission 2024−2029.  

We will establish a Union of Skills – focusing on investment, adult and lifelong learning, skill retention and the recognition of different types of training to enable people to work across our Union.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission 2024−2029 

It is instrumental that the momentum built with the European Year of Skills is translated into meaningful, impactful and long-lasting change and, to this end, a Union of Skills is of paramount importance. In this process, we call the new Commission to value and recognise all types of learning both for the labour market and for personal development, social inclusion, solidarity, democratic participation, health and wellbeing. 

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).