Cedefop has published the updated research dataset "Dataset – Timeline of VET policies in Europe" (2025 update), which contains more than 1 000 national strategies, legislation and practical measures related to vocational education and training (VET) and lifelong learning across the European Union Member States, Iceland and Norway. The dataset is intended to support in-depth analysis of VET policies and comparative research.
The data are collected annually by Cedefop in cooperation with ReferNet, the European network of expertise on vocational education and training. Each entry is presented in a structured format and includes information on the rationale behind the policy initiative, its objectives, key activities, implementation progress, thematic area, target groups and responsible institutions.
The dataset enables researchers, policy analysts and other stakeholders to gain deeper insights into the development of VET policies across Europe and to compare policy measures between countries. The information is also used in the preparation of country reports, thematic analyses, policy reviews and other Cedefop publications.
The dataset complements the interactive tool "Timeline of VET policies in Europe", which allows users to explore information on VET policy developments and reforms across European countries. Together with the "VET in Europe" database, it provides a more comprehensive picture of vocational education and training systems and policies across Europe.
The dataset is available on the Cedefop website:
https://www.cedefop.europa.eu/en/datasets/timeline-EU-vet-policies
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