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

29.10.2026 advocacy

Adult Learning at the heart of a resilient, democratic and competitive Europe

Joint statement by the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA) and AONTAS, The National Adult Learning Organisation, in the context of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union and at the dawn of a new Europe.

26.10.2026 adult educators

From Technology to Learning: 8 insights for a more inclusive adult education 

Technology is becoming increasingly essential in learning. If we want this learning to remain meaningful and inclusive, we need to consider the needs of vulnerable learners, educators, and the organisations that support them.

20.10.2026 inclusion

How to ensure quality in adult education bypassing the bureaucratic approach?

The Q-ALE Model final version is now available for all adult education organisations to use and adapt. Developed by an international partnership, the approach aims at fostering a true culture of quality across the sector.

14.10.2026 advocacy

Cuts cost more: EAEA deeply concerned by proposed reductions to the next EU budget

Ahead of the European Council meeting on 15–16 October, EAEA urges European leaders to recognise adult education, lifelong learning, and civil society as essential investments in Europe's future, not as expendable budget lines.