In times of rapidly changing economic and social contexts, Adult Learning and Education (ALE) plays a crucial role in addressing educational and social inequalities. ALE offers flexible, inclusive learning opportunities for adults who need to adapt to changes in the labour market and society. Beyond skills development, ALE strengthens people’s confidence, sense of belonging and ability to participate in their communities.
In this context, ALE can foster resilience and strong communities that can face change together, based on solidarity, dialogue and shared values. This is why EAEA has chosen “Resilience and Community-Building” as its annual theme for 2026.
The annual theme is closely linked to current EU priorities, especially the Democracy Package. At a time of rising Euroscepticism and threats to democratic values, ALE strengthens democracy by promoting civic engagement, critical thinking and participation.
Through our annual ABC of ALE training and our work on citizenship as a basic skill, EAEA’s 2026 annual theme supports the EU’s fundamental values: human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights. The annual theme highlights how these values can be put into practice.
Building resilience also means ensuring that all adults – especially those in vulnerable situations – can access upskilling and reskilling opportunities. In line with the Union of Skills and the Skills Portability Initiative, EAEA promotes inclusive learning approaches. This builds on our 2025 focus on Flexible Learning Pathways and continues our work on learner-centred, accessible and empowering ALE practices.
Joining the conversation around the European Commission’s 2024-2029 Priorities, EAEA will organise a policy lab, bringing together policymakers and different educational sectors. The lab will develop perspectives on the role of community, competition, and democracy in ALE.
Recognising that transnational and cross-sectoral cooperation is essential in responding to geopolitical shifts and challenges, we will deepen partnerships with counterparts in the US and Asia. This also aligns with the needs outlined by the EU Defence Package.
Get involved!
The annual theme is an invitation to EAEA members to develop activities that contribute to resilience and community-building in their contexts. Throughout 2026, EAEA will highlight members’ initiatives linked to the theme through its communication channels.
We will also launch the annual call for good practices via the EAEA Grundtvig Award 2026. The 2026 call invites the European adult education community to share examples of where ALE can support learners in vulnerable situations (e.g. low-skilled adults, migrants, older learners, people affected by economic transitions) and strengthen local communities.
By sharing experiences, learning from each other and showcasing good practices, we can collectively demonstrate the vital role of adult learning in building Europe’s future.
Key activities
- EAEA Grundtvig Award Call 2026 on Resilience and Community-Building – more information available soon!
- EAEA General Assembly, Annual Conference and Grundtvig Award Ceremony on 9-10 June in Warsaw, Poland, will bring together learners, practitioners, researchers and policymakers to exchange on the topic of Resilience and Community-Building. Registration opening soon!
- The EAEA podcast Beyond Learning continues to bring forward grassroots perspectives on the annual theme