The European framework for key competences for lifelong learning, released at the end of 2006, identifies and defines the key abilities and knowledge that everyone needs in order to achieve employment, personal fulfilment, social inclusion and active citizenship in today's rapidly-changing world.
The framework includes competences in 'traditional' subjects, such as mother tongue literacy, numeracy, knowledge of foreign languages, science and IT skills. But it also covers other skills, such as learning to learn, social and civic competence, initiative-taking, entrepreneurship, cultural awareness and self-expression.

Initial education and training systems across the EU should support the development of these competences in all young people, and adult education and training need to give real opportunities for all adults to continually build and maintain their skills.

Summary of the EU legislation establishing the European Qualifications Framework

Recommendation establishemnt of a European Qualifications Framework for lifelong learning-April 2008
Brochure-Recommendation establishemnt of a European Qualifications Framework for lifelong learning