The article deals with the questions of a broader vision for active citizenship, community development, personal development and social inclusion than a view of lifelong learning as being for a merely economic rationale. It is based on the results of the 6FP research project “Towards a Lifelong Learning Society in Europe: The Contribution of the Educational System”. The material reveals statistical data and policies analyses. The main focus is put on growing recognition that widening participation in lifelong learning must be reinforced in the future if Ireland is to capitalise on its economic success over the last decade or so. Some examples of good practice in Ireland with regard to lifelong learning may be transferable to the context of Lithuania.

Keywords: citizenship, social inclusion, lifelong learning