A Memorandum on Lifelong Learning

Abstract

The conclusions of the Lisbon European Council confirm that the move towards lifelong learning must accompany a successful transition to a knowledge-based economy and society. Therefore, Europe’s education and training systems are at the heart of the coming changes. They too, must adapt. The conclusions of the Feira European Council invite the “Member States, the Council and the Commission … within their areas of competence, to identify coherent strategies and practical measures with a view to fostering lifelong learning for all”.1 This Memorandum takes up the Lisbon and Feira European Councils’ mandate to implement lifelong learning. Its purpose is to launch a European-wide debate on a comprehensive strategy for implementing lifelong learning at individual and institutional levels, and in all spheres of public and private life.