Education and Lifelong Learning

In the framework of the EU Social Dialogue Work Programme 2012-2014, European Social Partners agreed that "the continuous development of competencies and the acquisition of qualifications are a shared interest and responsibility for employers, employees and public authorities. For enterprises, access to and development of a skilled workforce is one of the conditions for innovation and competitiveness. For workers, acquiring, updating and developing relevant knowledge, skills and competences throughout working lives is most effective to find and remain in employment".

In 2002, European Social Partners adopted a framework of actions on the lifelong development of competencies and qualifications. This framework of actions remains valid in the present situation as to its four priorities. Nevertheless, the two following issues have emerged since 2002:
 

• Skills needs in greening economies

• Active Ageing (update and upgrade of the skills of older workers in the context of longer working lives)

The new Integrated Programme focuses therefore on this two issues by taking stock and promoting existing best practices at national level.