Page 31 - Digital handbook - English

The initial principle of the European Pillar of Social Rights emphasizes:
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“Everyone has the right to quality and inclusive education, training and life-long
learning in order to maintain and acquire skills that enable them to participate fully in
society and manage successfully transitions in the labour market” (European Comission
2023a).

This vision was further supported in a Commission Communication on the role of youth,
education and cultural policies in building a stronger Europe, which stated that one of the
objectives of the European Education Area should be to support EU Member States in

improving the inclusive nature of their education and training systems.

Following proposals from the Commission, several policy initiatives have already been
adopted:

Key Competences for Lifelong Learning (Council Recommendation)
Promoting common values, inclusive education and the European dimension of
teaching (Council Recommendation)

Member States' progress towards achieving inclusive education is monitored through the
European Semester process and the Education and Training Monitor. The Monitor also
provides evidence on the role of education in fighting inequalities and promoting social
inclusion (European Comission 2023a).

The European Semester process, alongside the Education and Training Monitor, serves as
the mechanism for overseeing the advancement of Member States towards the goal of
inclusive education. Additionally, the Monitor supplies insights regarding how education
contributes to combating inequalities and fostering social inclusion.

Education and Training Monitor 2023 (Country Report Tool)
The Education and Training Monitor is the European Commission’s annual report on EU
education and training systems, and their progress towards achieving the EU-level

targets, which were adopted as part of the 2021 Council Resolution on a strategic
framework for European cooperation in education and training towards the European
Education Area (European Comission 2023b).

Also, global guidelines on inclusive education exist to foster environments where every
learner's needs are met. These guidelines, informed by research and best practices, aim
to enhance educational inclusivity. For those seeking comprehensive insights and
strategies, the following resources are essential:

UNICEF's overview of inclusive education sheds light on the global principles and
practices that underpin inclusive learning environments.
The Guide for Disabilities Inclusive Education Systems and Policies in Low- and

Middle-Income Countries offers practical approaches for integrating children with
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disabilities into mainstream educational settings.