That this fact is often overlooked was an issue discussed at the general assembly of the European Association of Local Authorities for Lifelong Learning’s (Earlall), which was held at the Committee of the Regions on 16 February 2010 with the participation of Cedefop.
The EU’s 2020 strategy, which is to replace the Lisbon Strategy, is expected to focus more on the practical implemention of the European policy priorities and common tools and principles that were developed over the last 10 years. But without the regions, it is unlikely that this effort will be successful. EU 2020 needs a regional dimension.
Common ground
Regional competences in lifelong learning range from full autonomy to shared competence with the State. In all cases, however, there is a very strong correlation between the responsibilities of regions and European lifelong learning policy. So it is not surprising that awareness of European common tools and principles is reasonably high among regions. Some are involved in discussions at national level and take part in European pilot projects. Yet their use of the tools and principles is not widespread. This may be simply because these tools and principles are new and will take time to be understood and accepted. But if regions are to implement lifelong learning policies that take advantage of European developments, this gap has to close. The challenge lies in making European lifelong learning priorities an integral part of regional policies.
Strategic cooperation between the regions and Europe: Cedefop’s role
Cedefop, for its part, is increasingly active in helping the regions acquire this strategic perspective. The agency keeps regional authorities informed of the latest European developments in order to encourage them to take these into account in their own policy decisions. In addition, Cedefop has been repeatedly invited to make presentations on the different European tools at regional meetings, emphasising the relevance of Europe to the regions. Shared European objectives common principles, guidelines, recommendations and instruments, can provide a focus for regional cooperation in Europe and stimulate ideas and innovation.
The social partners developed an action plan to complement the Lisbon strategy. Perhaps the regions should do something similar for EU 2020.
Seminar: Policies for regional cooperation in the field of lifelong learning: building a wide strategy for the next European planning period (16.02.2010)
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