Erasmus Plus: A Programme for Citizenship Education

Abstract: This article examines Erasmus Plus as a pivotal European Union programme for fostering citizenship education. It argues that Erasmus+, extending beyond academic and professional development, plays a crucial role in cultivating active participation in democratic society, intercultural understanding, and a sense of European identity among participants across its diverse sectors (School Education, VET, Higher Education, Youth, Adult Education, and Sport). The article explores how international mobility, a core component of Erasmus+, transforms abstract civic concepts into tangible experiences, thereby developing essential intercultural skills, critical thinking, and global awareness. It highlights the synergistic "virtuous circle" between mobility experiences and formal/non-formal citizenship education. Furthermore, the article discusses the importance of "decentering"—the capacity to critically assess one's own culture from an external perspective—as a key outcome catalyzed by Erasmus+ experiences, drawing on insights from Nussbaum and Todorov. It concludes that Erasmus+ serves as a vital instrument in forging responsible, engaged, and critically aware global citizens prepared for an interconnected world, strengthening the foundations for a more cohesive and aware global society.