The European Commission published a report that shows how 'citizenship education' is already integrated into primary and secondary school curricula in all EU Member States. The report also shows that improving knowledge and skills for teaching the subject remains a challenge, however, with only two countries (UK - England and Slovakia) offering training for prospective specialist teachers in initial teacher education programmes.

The “Citizenship Education in Europe report”, compiled for the Commission by the Eurydice network, covers 31 European countries – the EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, Croatia and Turkey. The report shows that in all European countries schools have introduced rules and recommendations aimed at encouraging democratic practices and participation through, for example, the election of class representatives, student councils and student representation on school governing bodies. This increases the likelihood that young people will actively engage in social and political life. In Mars 2011, EU Ministers debated on education for active citizenship for youth.

With regard to the 'citizenship education' subject, the report shows a general consensus that citizenship education should aim to develop critical thinking, analytical skills and attitudes to foster active participation in school and society. However, 'citizenship education' subject has been integrated into primary and secondary school curricula with different approaches.

On the other hand, since 2007 more than half have implemented at least one publicly financed programme or project to cultivate citizenship-related values and attitudes outside school. These include initiatives to encourage pupils from different ethnic and socio-economic groups to get involved in joint activities.