In the heart of Brussels, the European Association for Education for Adults (EAEA) stands as a key advocate for lifelong learning. With a network of over 120 members, the EAEA works to ensure that non-formal education is recognised as a priority by the European institutions and across the member states.
In this blog, Greta Pelucco, Policy and Advocacy Coordinator at the EAEA, offers insights into her advocacy work in Brussels and shares her experiences with Polpo’s European policy monitor.
The EAEA’s advocacy activities in the EU
One of the main activities include advocacy and policy work by providing recommendations and implementation strategies to the European Commission and the European Parliament. The EAEA delivers trainings and workshops to individuals and associations on adult learning education. Additionally, it takes part and leads European projects and develops capacity-building strategies to create a meaningful impact on non-formal adult education.
Understanding and engaging with the complex landscape of EU policymaking demands precise, up-to-date political monitoring. Being aware of institutional developments enables EAEA to strategise effectively when engaging with MEPs and policymakers. Understanding the legislative landscape allows them to adapt our approach and ensure the priorities align with European institutions’ agendas.
The impact of policy monitoring
The most significant advantage of political monitoring is time efficiency. Having all relevant information consolidated in one source eliminates the need to browse multiple websites for updates, making the process significantly more streamlined. Greta explains:
“Political monitoring with Polpo saves us time and helps us shape our strategies even better. Polpo’s EU monitor allows us to find essential documents quickly, ensuring our advocacy is both timely and effective.”
Education as a pillar of democracy and security
At present, the EAEA is focused on themes that resonate across Europe like democracy, citizenship, peace, and twin transition. They aim to position adult education as a crucial topic in EU’s priorities, particularly in the context of non-formal education.
The EAEA utilises the narratives of the European Commission and Parliament to reinforce their message: “Strengthening democracy and security starts with education,” Greta emphasises. “It is not just about professional skills or economic mobility, it is about fostering informed and engaged citizens. Learning should be a joyful and enriching experience that is accessible to everyone.” This approach positions non-formal education as an essential tool in tackling modern challenges, both within and beyond Europe’s borders.
Navigating EU politics with Polpo
To keep up with the ever-changing EU landscape, one of the most valuable features of Popo is its daily updates. By saving specific topics in the search function, EAEA receives tailored information relevant to their topics linked to education. “By quickly identifying new priorities we can access relevant information not just from EU institutions but also from other EU stakeholders.”
“Beyond the daily updates, the platform itself is highly efficient. We can search for specific topics as needed and filter information by source, such as the European Commission. The ability to quickly access targeted, relevant information makes our work much more manageable.”
Shaping the future of adult education in the European Union
“Our advocacy is not just about following policy, it is about shaping it. Engaging with EU policymakers, advocating with other organizations and partners and supporting non-formal education initiatives in the EU all contribute to our mission. Raising awareness about the importance of lifelong learning and ensuring it remains a political priority will help strengthen adult education across Europe.”
Looking ahead, the EAEA remains committed to shaping the fast-moving EU political climate. Although EAEA might need to adapt to the priorities of the European Commission, its mission is always to be the voice of adult education. “Having a robust monitoring system, like Polpo, allows us to stay ahead of changes, identify new priorities quickly and ensure that adult education remains a key focus.”