Abstract: 
"In spite of the local and national issues discussed in each country, there are global challenges prioritized as requiring action and reflection that are common to all education systems. After sharing some of the burning issues for the education systems, including teacher shortage, the digital revolution and the place of AI, among others, this conference will focus on the theme of equity and inclusion, building on the ongoing work at the European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education (EASNIE).Inclusive education is a shared goal for the construction of a fair, cohesive and resilient society. Several countries have been embracing the goal of transforming education systems, by adopting new legislation to achieve this purpose. In spite of this alignment, a constant clarification of the key principles of inclusive systems is required. EASNIE’s member countries have approved and revised a position paper on the characteristics of inclusive education, which constitutes a robust starting point for legislative reforms.
If agreement on the principles is a requirement, the biggest challenge is the move from policy to practice. Member countries identified implementation, monitoring and sustainability of inclusive education as one of the main priorities for joint action. This presentation will present a summary of lessons learned from the Country Cluster Activities, and highlight main areas for a positive implementation and monitoring, focusing on areas such as the role of collaboration, learner and parent participation, leadership, teacher preparation and professional development, communication between policy-makers, stakeholders and the society. Effective monitoring and evidence-based decisions for the sustainability of the legislative procedures will also be illustrated through practical examples."