The Steering Committee for Education (CDEDU) oversees action in the field of education and advises the Committee of Ministers. Rooted in the four purposes of education as defined by the Committee of Ministers, the overall aim of the education programme is to support member states in developing their policies, legislation and practice in view of promoting democratic, quality, inclusive and corruption-free education systems, taking into account the Council of Europe Reference Framework for Democratic Culture. The CDEDU focuses on Council of Europe priority areas and covers all levels and strands of education.

Focus 2024-2030

Council of Europe Education Strategy 2024-2030 “Learners First – Education for Today’s and Tomorrow’s Democratic Societies”, Renewing the democratic and civic mission of education; enhancing the social responsibility and responsiveness of education; advancing education through a human rights-based digital transformation; learner autonomy; flexibility in curriculum and programme design; professional development; inclusion and participation; democratic and participatory governance of education systems and institutions.

Civil society involvement 

• Participant: Conference of INGOs (CINGO)
• Observers
• Consultation with civil society, either through direct participation in meetings, through dedicated hearings or in writing.