The Academic Cooperation Association (ACA) and the European Association for International Education (EAIE) joined forces in 2024 to produce a current snapshot of national strategies and policy frameworks for the internationalisation of higher education across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). The resulting report, ‘’Mapping the internationalisation strategy landscape across the EHEA – 2025 and beyond’’, published this November, captures both the diversity of approaches and the evolving policy landscape shaping internationalisation as of 2025. It offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of how internationalisation is being strategically pursued at national level across the EHEA, alongside insights into dynamics that both challenge and strengthen these strategic efforts. 

Drawing on extensive desk research, analysis of strategic documents and semi-structured interviews with policymakers and national experts, the report outlines three complementary perspectives: the historical emergence and evolution of national strategies; concise country profiles presenting current policies and strategic directions; and forward-looking reflections on the trends influencing future policy development.  

The findings highlight wide variation in how national-level strategic engagement is structured, with only 13 of the 47 systems reviewed having defined national strategies at the time of the study. At the same time, common themes emerge: a growing emphasis on inclusiveness, an impact-driven approach to internationalisation, the continuing importance of European-level frameworks such as the Bologna Process and Erasmus+, and persistent challenges around issues such as visas and recognition. 

The report also reflects broader dynamics shaping internationalisation today. It shows how a mix of positive developments, growing pressures and ongoing change is influencing national debates, with geopolitical volatility and shifting public attitudes adding further complexity. Looking ahead, the study identifies a possible shift towards more adaptive, flexible and evidence-driven national strategies, broader engagement with stakeholders beyond the education sector, and clearer communication of the value of internationalisation. Serving as an accessible reference for policymakers and practitioners, the report aims to support informed discussions and continued exchange on the future direction of internationalisation across the EHEA.