Learning Cities: National Concepts and Practices in Selected Asian and European Countries

The learning city concept has gained significant momentum in both Asia and Europe as a strategy to build inclusive learning societies and promote lifelong learning at the local level. This chapter explores the historical development, policy frameworks, and cultural contexts that have shaped learning cities in selected Asian countries - Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, and Vietnam - and compares them with European models. While Asian learning cities are often state-designated and deeply rooted in collectivist values, emphasising social harmony and serving as instruments of national policy integrating community development, their European counterparts tend to focus on individual agency and empowerment, human rights, and active citizenship. The chapter analyses how national histories, institutional capacities, and cultural values influence the emergence and governance of learning cities. It also introduces the expanded EcCoWell concept, reflecting Asia’s holistic approach to sustainability, well-being, and education. Despite divergent origins, learning cities across regions increasingly converge in aiming to align social cohesion with economic competitiveness under global frameworks. Finally, the chapter highlights the role of UNESCO, OECD, and the European Commission in advancing global learning city networks and cooperation