CIVIL SOCIETY AND EDUCATION IN THE EUROPEAN UNION

Education is at a turning point around the world. Teachers and educators now face a major challenge in defending freedom, accepting lifelong learning as a human right, and reinterpreting the institutional vision, mission, and values. The aim is to be compatible with the emerging world paradigms of globalization, social responsibility and sustainable development. This is particularly true in the countries of the European continent, in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions of education Access to quality, inclusive and lifelong learning is a fundamental right for all European citizens. Education is the basis for personal fulfilment, employability and active and responsible citizenship. Education is a prerequisite for the viability of European societies and economies. Both education and civil society are key areas for the long-term development of the European Union. Our article briefly describes their role and status in the EU and attempts to outline their relationships and how NGOs can be involved in educational processes.