Validation of non-formal and informal learning has been part of the European policy agenda since 2001 when the
Commission defined lifelong learning as all learning activity undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving
knowledge, skills and competences within a personal, civic, social and/or employment-related perspective. Since the
Copenhagen Declaration on enhanced European cooperation in vocational education and training a series of
initiatives have been taken to develop European tools and instruments in
the area of lifelong learning: