A central part of EBSN’s work is to create spaces where policy and practice can inform each other. This includes conference-based dialogue, webinars, joint reflection processes, consultation with members, and cooperation with European and international stakeholders. Through these activities, EBSN helps translate evidence into discussion, discussion into shared positions, and shared positions into practical follow-up.

Recent work has given particular attention to the implications of the OECD Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC), especially in relation to participation in adult learning, the persistence of the low-skills trap, barriers related to time and cost, the importance of relevance and outreach, and the need for stronger lifelong learning systems. In cooperation with EAEA, EBSN has contributed to a discussion paper, a consultation report, and a joint policy reflection process on these issues.

EBSN also maintains regular professional dialogue with relevant European-level bodies and seeks synergies with wider European networks and platforms. This work helps ensure that members’ experience and expertise can contribute to broader policy discussions in a constructive and informed way.

CBS and EPALE

EBSN has worked in close connection with EPALE since the platform’s early years, contributing thematic content, learning resources and professional exchange linked to adult basic skills development. This cooperation has helped widen the reach of EBSN’s work, connect it to the broader European adult learning community, and support the dissemination of policy-oriented materials, webinars and open educational resources. The Capacity Building Series is one of the clearest examples of this cooperation in practice.

Projects and partnerships are an important part of how EBSN turns shared priorities into concrete work. Through collaboration with member institutions and external partners, the Network contributes to the development of methods, resources, learning opportunities and policy-relevant insights that can support the field more broadly.

This work includes both ongoing and completed projects, as well as strategic cooperation with partner organisations. Some initiatives focus on methodology, innovation and training; others support dissemination, system reflection, or the transfer of good practice across countries. Together, they help create a stronger evidence base, expand practical tools, and open space for experimentation and joint learning.

EBSN’s collaborative work is closely linked to the wider priorities of the Network: stronger policy, better learning opportunities for adults, professionalisation of educators, and more coherent systems for participation and inclusion. The project portfolio on the previous website shows the breadth of this work, from pedagogical development to cross-country cooperation and European project participation.

Projects & Partnerships