Strategies for overcoming exclusion through adult learning were identified through case studies of 19 initiatives in the following countries: Belgium; Mexico; the Netherlands; Norway; Portugal; and the United Kingdom. The study programs involved a diverse array of formal, nonformal, and informal public sector, community, and enterprise-based learning initiatives. Special attention was paid to the following topics: concepts and dimensions of social exclusion and adult learning; national policy approaches and local initiatives designed to combat exclusion through adult learning; and costs and effectiveness. The following were among the main conclusions: (1) given sufficient energy, innovation, and support, innovative programs can help combat even severe disadvantage and exclusion; (2) small-scale but sustained investment can be more effective than less-targeted, "scatter-gun" funding of large-scale programs; (3) policies must be devised in a manner that does not constrain grassroots energy or cross conventional departmental and policy demarcations; (4) programs should be demand driven rather than supply driven; (5) leadership is the crucial determinant of programs' futures; and (6) programs should focus not only on developing vocational knowledge and skills but also on equipping adults for shifting working and labor market arrangements. (Approximately 75% of this document consists of country reports. The bibliography lists 59 references.) (MN)