The network aims at gathering policy makers (ministries and national agencies) and policy providers (research institutions and advocacy associations) in the field of basic skills for adults. The current membership list includes 51 members from 31 countries.

Initially the network will focus on four of the main basic skills: literacy, numeracy, digital competence, oral communication and language competence for immigrants. Other skills, in particular entrepreneurship, foreign languages, soft skills, and other key competences will be added to this list after the network has consolidated its program of activities.

The network’s members will contribute to better policy and practice for the enhancement of basic skills in the European population by

-      benchmarking national policy and effects
-      exchanging examples of promising policy and practice at national or regional level
-      creating a common knowledge area through the exchange of research results
-      facilitating cooperation between European stakeholders
-      raising awareness about relevant issues
-      creating a common pool of resources
-      establishing cooperation with relevant stakeholders outside Europe

Vox, the Norwegian Agency for Lifelong Learning, has taken the initiative to launch the European Basic Skills Network as an independent and sustainable organization, and is responsible for administering the activities during the network’s first year, in cooperation with an elected Steering Committee. The next annual conference will take place in June 2011 in Vaduz, Liechtenstein.