Young Adults and Active Citizenship: Towards Social Inclusion through Adult Education

This open-access book explores the complex interdependencies between adult education, young adults in vulnerable situations, and active citizenship in the European context. It highlights the importance of adult education in engaging and re-engaging young adults, facilitating their life chances and social inclusion, and contributing to active citizenship. The book addresses the social exclusion, disengagement, and disaffection of young adults, particularly those experiencing vulnerability, and emphasizes the need for addressing their specific needs and requirements to promote their participation in social, economic, and civic/political life. It also explores the cross-national dimensions of active citizenship, including social competences, social capital, civic and political participation, and skills related to the economy and labor market.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This open-access book explores a wide range of intricate interconnections between adult education, young adults in vulnerable situations, and active citizenship. Adult education has gained increasing recognition as a powerful tool for engaging and re-engaging young adults, enhancing their life chances and promoting social inclusion, thereby contributing to active citizenship within their societal contexts. This comprehensive collection of chapters addresses issues related to social inclusion of young people, offering a unique European perspective on the complex interplay between adult education, young adults in vulnerable situations, and active citizenship.

Over the past decade, EU member states have grappled with significant social exclusion, disengagement, and disaffection among young adults. Recognizing the growing number of young people affected by unstable social, economic, and political circumstances in Europe and its neighboring regions, stakeholders have increasingly acknowledged the urgent need to address these challenges. Young adults who face various degrees of vulnerability are particularly at risk of being excluded and marginalized.

Adult education has proven to be a crucial avenue for addressing the specific needs and requirements of young adults, enabling them to participate fully in social, economic, and civic/political life in their country contexts. By fostering the active citizenship of young people, both directly and indirectly, many adult education programs overlap, forming a core approach to integration.

This book delves into the social, economic, and political dimensions of active citizenship, encompassing the development of social competences and social capital, civic and political engagement, and social responsibility. It sheds light on the ways in which adult education programs can contribute to the empowerment and inclusion of young adults, promoting their active participation in society and fostering a sense of belonging.

Furthermore, the book explores the challenges and opportunities faced by young adults in vulnerable situations, such as poverty, discrimination, and social exclusion. It highlights the importance of inclusive policies and practices that support the social integration of young adults, including access to education, employment opportunities, and social services.

In conclusion, this open-access book provides valuable insights into the complex interdependencies between adult education, young adults in vulnerable situations, and active citizenship. It highlights the importance of addressing social exclusion and promoting social inclusion through adult education, fostering the active citizenship of young people, and promoting their empowerment and social integration. By understanding these interconnections, policymakers, educators, and practitioners can work towards creating more inclusive and equitable societies for all.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030650018
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021