Influence of UNESCO in the Development of Lifelong Learning

Abstract

The concept of lifelong learning has been retrieved from a gradual transition of lifelong education. UNESCO as an international organisation has a significant role and contribution in promoting lifelong learning around the world. This study is aiming to look over the historical change of the concept of “lifelong education” to “lifelong learning”, and UNESCO’s influence and position on the changes within the context of developed and developing countries. This is historical research, which will describe the historical moments regarding lifelong learning and UNESCO’s contribution. The study has found that the new form of global economy (neo-liberalism and capitalist approach) has created the need for individual’s employment, which has influenced the transitional change of the lifelong learning concept. It has also found that UNESCO’s influence and contribution are much more significant in developing or low-income countries while it has less of an impact on developed countries.