This report presents the main findings from the first review of the implementation of the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC). The review process took place between March – December 2023.The main aim of this study was to understand the extent to which the RFCDC has been used in formal education systems of Member States since 2016, including its influence on policies and practices. Moreover, this review was intended as an opportunity for policy learning among Member States. The results have supported the preparation of the Council of Europe Education Strategy 2024-2030 and were fed into the 26th session of the Standing Conference of Ministers of Education of the Council of Europe on 28-29 September 2023. Chapter 1 of the report offers an overview of the conceptual definitions guiding the study and the research design used. Chapter 2 analyses the main findings in the implementation of the RFCDC in the following areas: 1) education policy development; 2) education system; 3) school; 4) addressing current and emerging issues, such violence in schools, violent extremism and radicalisation; climate change; media and informational literacy; ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI); and education in times of crisis; and 5) main opportunities and challenges related to the integration of the RFCDC in education systems. The concluding chapter (chapter 3) presents policy pointers for improvement with regards to the implementation of the RFCDC in key areas of action, and how to support further Member States in undertaking this task.The findings presented below were drawn from the analysis of evidence collected through:• A literature and document review conducted in English and French.• 2 online surveys: one for the Education Policy Advisors Network (EPAN) members (25 responses received), and one for education stakeholders across levels and sectors of education (42 responses received).• Peer learning workshops with the EPAN Network held in May 2023.• Online focus groups (15 participants in 5 online focus groups).• Individual interviews with EPAN Network members (5) <br/
