On 14and 15 October 2025, the Academic Cooperation Association (ACA) hosted the Diversity and Inclusion in Erasmus+ Implementation (DiEM) National Agency Workshop: Improving Erasmus+ Processes, bringing together representatives from National Agencies (NAs), higher education institutions, and NGOs across Europe. 

Over two days, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on how to make Erasmus+ more inclusive, flexible, and effective. Using the Delphi method, the workshop explored national approaches to top-ups, inclusion support, and payment systems, while fostering exchange on how to strengthen collaboration across the sector. The insights gathered will inform the Inclusive Mobility Framework being developed within the DiEM project, which will propose new, more inclusive and participatory models for Erasmus+ implementation. 

In parallel, a new DiEM report on the implementation of diversity and inclusion (I&D) in Erasmus+ provides a comprehensive overview of progress and remaining challenges across Europe. Based on a survey of 16 National Agencies and extensive desk research, the study assesses how effectively the I&D priority is being implemented under the 2021–2027 Erasmus+ programme. 

Findings reveal a broad diversity of national approaches: 13 agencies report having formal I&D strategies, though implementation models differ significantly. Some agencies have established dedicated teams and national action plans, while others integrate inclusion goals through internal guidelines or cross-sectoral cooperation. Financial support models also vary, with all agencies using KA131 funding for inclusion but applying different allocation methods. 

The report underlines the importance of stakeholder engagement, noting that one-third of agencies involve universities, student organisations, and ministries in developing national strategies. Agencies combining proactive guidance, flexible funding, and strong stakeholder collaboration report the most effective outcomes. 

Nevertheless, challenges persist, including limited student awareness, institutional capacity gaps, and rigid programme structures. The report concludes with recommendations to formalise inclusion strategies, enhance monitoring, and strengthen EU-level coordination, ensuring that Erasmus+ continues to evolve as a programme that is both inclusive and impactful.