28 March 2025

Reinforcing global partnerships in higher education and research: The world needs the EU and the EU needs the world

As the European Commission prepares its proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034, we emphasise the need for sustained and strengthened investment in international academic cooperation as a key driver of innovation, economic development, and global stability.

Cutting support risks weakening global partnerships, diminishing innovation, and reducing the EU’s strategic influence as a key global player in an increasingly volatile world. Now is the time to reinforce investment in international higher education, research and collaborative knowledge production as a cornerstone of global development. 

Interested organisations were able to co-sign our position paper by 28 March 2025 to express their support.

Co-signing organisations: AASU, ACU, British Council, DAAD, Danida Fellowship Centre, EDUFI, ERASuD, HK-dir, OeAD, OBREAL,  The Guild, UNIMED and VLIRUOS.