On 20–21 May 2026, the European Network of Education Councils (EUNEC), together with the Lithuanian Education Council and the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport of the Republic of Lithuania, will host an international seminar in Kaunas and Vilnius dedicated to the role of education in democratic resilience.
Across Europe, education systems are facing growing societal challenges: disinformation, social fragmentation, political polarisation, declining civic participation and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence. In this context, schools, universities and adult education institutions are increasingly expected not only to provide knowledge and skills, but also to strengthen democratic values, critical thinking, participation and social cohesion.
This seminar will examine how education policy and practice can contribute to resilient democracies and active citizenship. Discussions will focus on questions such as:
How can education systems respond to disinformation and misinformation?
What does critical thinking mean in the age of AI?
How can schools and universities foster democratic participation and trust?
Which policy measures are needed to strengthen civic and citizenship education?
How can teachers and education institutions support learners in navigating increasingly complex information environments?
The programme will bring together keynote speakers, policymakers and education experts from across Europe and beyond to discuss democratic resilience from multiple perspectives, including digital literacy, AI, inclusive education, citizenship education and governance. Sessions will address both strategic policy questions and concrete educational practices.
The seminar will take place in Kaunas and Vilnius, Lithuania, and will also include opportunities for networking and exchange among members of education councils and partner organisations across Europe.
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