This book considers how adult learning can respond to an era marked by political unrest, ecological crisis, digital disruption, and global interdependence. Drawing on UNESCO frameworks, international policy evolution, and contemporary social research, Torres argues that Adult Learning and Education (ALE) is not a peripheral educational concern but a foundational pillar for sustaining democracy, building social justice, and advancing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4. Spanning historical analysis, philosophical inquiry, global case studies and forward-looking policy recommendations, Torres positions Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and sustainability as essential to ALE's renewal. Torres explores multiple literacies-civic, digital, environmental, cultural-and demonstrates how they empower individuals and communities to navigate uncertainty, resist disinformation, and engage meaningfully in public life. With particular attention to vulnerable populations, including migrants and refugees to women, LGBTQ+ communities and Indigenous peoples, the book highlights the transformative potential of lifelong learning to foster inclusion and resilience.

Carlos Alberto Torres is Distinguished Professor, Director of the Paul Freire Institute, and former Director of the UCLA-Latin American Center, at UCLA, USA.