Skills for work and life

WRLs are intended to provide a common language to be used as a basis for comparing individuals’ capacities. They will generate internationally comparable information. They are not intended to set new standards or norms for qualifications or frameworks. They are based on, and intended to be compatible with, a range of existing structures, instruments and approaches (including the validation of non-formal and informal learning) in all fields of learning and achievement. They are not intended to set compliancy regulations for qualifications, to bring qualifications into a single register or database, or to create rules for the recognition of qualifications, competences and capabilities. They could, however, be used for developing shared understandings of qualifications, establishing local databases, or agreeing recognition protocols.

WRLs will produce usefully detailed ‘translations’ of required or certificated capacities. They may assist with, but should not interfere with, existing or planned agreements on recognition and mobility. They might be used along with other globally agreed principles on procedures for the recognition of qualifications, competences and capabilities

A unique set of cross-cutting knowledge, skills and competences that enables an individual to act collaboratively and responsibly, to find global solutions to global challenges, and to strive for the collective good.

(Comment: The world reference level is a special type of level descriptor that functions outside a qualifications framework. A global convention or recognition agreement may in future provide a basis for this purpose.)