Education

Throughout 2025, the Education Department of the Council of Europe continued to pursue a clear ambition: to place education at the heart of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Guided by the “Learners First” Education Strategy 2024–2030, its work further strengthened education as a cornerstone of free, inclusive and resilient societies.
This report highlights the major achievements delivered across three interlinked priorities: renewing the democratic and civic mission of education, enhancing its social responsibility and responsiveness, and advancing a human rights-based digital transformation. From citizenship education to academic integrity, from inclusion and gender equality to language policy and history education, 2025 was marked by strong cooperation, innovation and tangible progress. Key milestones included the consolidation of the European Space for Citizenship Education, the European Year of Digital Citizenship Education, and the publication of the report on the erosion of academic freedom in Europe. Significant advances were also made in the recognition of qualifications, the fight against education fraud, and the development of practical tools designed to support member states and education stakeholders.
Through its governing bodies, expert networks and cooperation programmes, the Department reaffirmed its commitment to quality, equitable and integrity-driven education systems capable of responding to contemporary technological, social and geopolitical challenges. This brochure provides an overview of the year’s activities, partnerships and forward-looking initiatives. It reflects a shared conviction: investing in education means investing in Europe’s democratic future.