The Nordic countries are faced with the common challenge of simultaneously strengthening their competitiveness in the global economy and retaining the Nordic welfare model. A decisive contribution to this will be strengthening the development of human resources. Lifelong learning for all is essential. The Nordic Network for Adult Learning will be launched at a conference on Monday 4 April 2005 at the LO school, Helsingør, Denmark.

The Danish chairmanship of the Nordic Council of Ministers in 2005 especially emphasises the following tools for the realisation of lifelong studies/adults' studies:

- More evaluation and recognition on educational courses of skills acquired through experience
- Skills enhancement and workplace training
- Adult and further training – especially for those with limited formal education
- Increased emphasis on reading