Today, the concept of “lifelong learning” (LLL) might be widely used, but its meaning differs according to whom is using it. According to the LLL-P, lifelong learning covers education and training across all ages and in all areas of life be it formal, non-formal or informal. It shall enable citizen’s emancipation and full participation in society in its civic, social and economic dimensions. The idea of organising Lifelong Learning Weeks aims to raise awareness on Lifelong Learning in Europe and to put forward the need to adopt a holistic approach at all levels of decision-making, implementation and evaluation. This is necessary if we want the EU to become a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy as set in the Europe 2020 strategy.

The 5th edition of the LLL Week “Investing in Education for Inclusive Societies” was held from 30 November to 4 December, in and out of the European Parliament, and under the patronage of MEP Krystyna Lybacka (S&D, PL). This year’s hot topics were:

• Education to promote intercultural dialogue and citizenship
• Guidance and counselling to take validation to the next level
• Media literacy: XXI Century challenge