In order to enhance the quality education for all and further align the formal education system of Serbia with democratic values, a dedicated task force successfully continued the process initiated with the national Guidelines, developed with the support of the European Union and the Council of Europe, and adapted the descriptors of the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC).

The working group highlighted how the Competences for Democratic Culture can be developed by stressing the importance of descriptors and connecting them with the country’s national curricula.

Led by experts in education, curriculum development and policymakers, the working group seeks to ensure that students in Serbia not only gain academic knowledge but also develop critical competencies essential for active citizenship and democratic participation. By integrating the principles of the RFCDC into the national curricula, educators hope to empower students with skills such as critical thinking, empathy, and respect for diversity.

The working group, led and established by the State Institute for Improvement of Education and the Ministry of Education, including the State Secretary for Education, has been engaging in thorough discussions and analyses to bridge the gap between this pan-European framework and the local curricula. By linking these two elements, the goal is to promote democratic values, critical thinking, tolerance, and active citizenship among students across Serbia. As the working group continues its efforts, it is expected that these enhancements will have a positive impact on shaping the future generations of Serbia.

The efforts of the curricula working group underscore Serbia’s commitment to promoting democratic principles through education. As the joint European Union and Council of Europe action “Quality education for all” progresses, key stakeholders anticipate tangible improvements in the educational landscape, paving the way for a more democratic and inclusive society.

The action “Quality education for all” is part of the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.