EU Ministers adopt the Herning Declaration on VET
15/09/2025
On 11–12 September 2025, European Union education ministers met in Billund and Herning under the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Herning Declaration, which sets out a renewed commitment to strengthen European cooperation in the field of Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The Herning Declaration follows the Osnabrück Declaration (2020), which laid down a roadmap for European VET cooperation for the period 2021–2025. While the Osnabrück Declaration focused on recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and the twin digital and green transitions, the Herning Declaration updates this framework in light of ongoing challenges, including demographic change and labour market transformation.
The Herning Declaration underlines several shared priorities for VET systems across Europe, including:
- Quality and relevance: Ensuring that VET responds to changing labour market needs, particularly in light of digital, green and demographic transitions.
- Collaboration with stakeholders: Reinforcing the role of social partners and other actors in shaping VET provision.
- Attractiveness and inclusion: Promoting equal access to VET for all learners, including young people, adults, and disadvantaged groups.
- Mobility and cooperation: Strengthening cross-border exchange of learners and staff to support mutual learning and innovation.
For regions and local authorities, the Declaration highlights the importance of VET as a tool for responding to social and economic challenges. It also provides a framework that may guide future policies and initiatives at the regional level.
As EARLALL members continue to address issues such as skills shortages, youth opportunities, and lifelong learning, the Herning Declaration offers a common European reference point for ongoing discussions and collaboration.
