Education Committee - European cooperation on inclusive education

The last meeting of the Luxembourg Presidency in the field of education was held in Luxembourg on 3 and 4 December 2015. This was also the seventh session of the Education Committee which is made up of government representatives from the 28 Member States who prepare for meetings of the Education Council and ensure the implementation of its decisions.

The Education Committee meeting in Luxembourg on 3 and 4 December 2015

(c) MENEJ

The meeting in Luxembourg provided an opportunity to take stock of the achievements of the current trio of Presidencies for 2014-2015 and to highlight the issues to be addressed in the months to come, including the promotion of inclusive education and democratic culture.

The Italian, Latvian and Luxembourg Presidencies of the Council of the EU praised the level of collaboration which has made it possible to respond in a coherent manner to current developments, as well as to needs expressed by the Member States. In particular, the three presidencies have strengthened cross-sectoral cooperation in the fields of employment, youth and research. They also struck a better balance between the promotion of the economic, social and personal aspects of education. With the mid-term review of the Education and Training 2020 Strategic Framework adopted by Education Ministers on 23 November, Member States now have the resources to strengthen cooperation to facilitate the integration of migrants through education and to fight against the radicalisation of young people in Europe.

A significant part of the meeting was devoted to cooperation with key partners in this field, such as the European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education and the Council of Europe. Member States reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in support of the development of inclusive education. This is an essential basis for more inclusive societies offering opportunities to all citizens, irrespective of their social and cultural origins or specific needs.

On 1 January 2016, the Netherlands Presidency will take up the mantle to ensure that the joint work continues. In particular, the priorities will include the contribution of education and training to growth, employment and to an inclusive Europe.

Press release by the Ministry of National Education, Children and Youth