Education is a fundamental right. Behind it lies a commitment to ensure that every learner, regardless of background, ability, or situation, can access high‑quality, inclusive education and lifelong learning. This principle is central to the European Pillar of Social Rights and underpins the European Education Area's mission.
Why Inclusive Education Matters
It strengthens social cohesion and common values, such as dignity, democracy, equality, and respect for human rights.
It helps overcome entrenched inequalities: students from disadvantaged or rural backgrounds, migrants, and under‑represented groups often face barriers to participation and achievement.
It supports future resilience, equipping all learners with skills needed to thrive in evolving labour markets and democratic societies.
How the EU Supports Inclusive Education
The Council Recommendation on Common Values, Inclusive Education and the European Dimension of Teaching promotes belonging, inclusive practices, and understanding of European identities from early to adult education levels.
Member States and educational institutions are encouraged to develop quality assurance systems, used to assess, monitor and improve inclusiveness across schools and training institutions.
Mutual learning and knowledge‑sharing between countries is fostered through the European Education Area, peer-learning activities, and Erasmus+ partnership projects focused on inclusion.
Special Focus: Migrants and Refugees
Between 2016 and 2027, the EU Action Plan on Integration and Inclusion supports efforts to integrate migrants across education levels from early childhood through adult learning. This work includes fast-track recognition of qualifications, flexible learning pathways and targeted language support, often funded through Erasmus+ and structural funds
European Level Expertise and Projects
The European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education (EASNIE) provides guidance and tools to help Member States implement inclusive education systems. It is backed by extensive policy and research collaboration.
Projects like EQui‑T (European Quality Development System for Inclusive Education and Teacher Training) develop and share Open Inclusive Educational Resources (OIER) and train educators to design inclusive learning experiences focused on equality and sustainability.
Original reference - https://education.ec.europa.eu/focus-topics/improving-quality/inclusive-education