Amidst times of wars, societal conflicts, global climate change and polarisations that are perceived as threats to democratic coexistence, there is a recurring call in the public discourse for the strengthening of civic lifelong education (Banks et al., Citation2023; Hurtado, Citation2019; Krzywosz-Rynkiewicz & Kennedy, Citation2022; Petrie et al., Citation2019). The pressing need to foster an informed and engaged citizenry becomes increasingly evident as societies grapple with complex challenges and the erosion of democratic values. In this editorial, we delve into the significance of civic adult education in fostering sustainable democracies and explore the potential avenues for further research in this field. The editorial also aims to explore the significance of civic lifelong education in the aftermath of the Russian war against Ukraine, reflecting on its implications and the imperative for further research in this domain.