Social inclusion (for adults) and democracy is part of the genesis of adult education (social movements, citizenship .... Horton, Freire, Grundtvig ...). At specific times and geographies, this purpose has been achieved. But we still have to work hard so that adults feel included and participate in the construction of increasingly democratic societies.

I think that in synthesis we cannot shape the future of Adult Learning in Europe unless we give due importance to SDG 4.7. For those not familiar, it says: "4.7 by 2030 ensure all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development". The future of Adult Education lies in the promotion of sustainable lifestyles as understood through the four pillars of the economy, the environment, society and culture. The focus of this conference on social inclusion was crucial since it gave importance to a pillar that is sometimes overlooked in practice rather than considered an indivisable pillar of what sustainabiltiy is all about.

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We we will come back at 12:45 with presentations of results of workshops and national panels and closing by Markus Rester (Head of Sector, European Commission, DG EAC). Stay tuned!

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Q to the panel: How can adult education help in strengthening democracy and are there good tools in addressing the global problem about the mistrust in democracy 

Still, the outmost pillar of success is considered to be the high performance and material prosperity. How could the academic community & relevant organizations connect innovation and sustainable development with the awareness of soft (life) skills?

Being education and lifelong learning the best tools to reintegration in society, studied and proved, what is the place education in prison has in the European priorities and plans for Adult Education?

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Do you have questions for our international panelists about the role of adult education for sustainable development, social fairness and democracy? Just post them here on the comments!

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very interesting topic and remains current. Congratulations to the organizers.

Dear colleagues,