The Joint Push for a Stronger Erasmus+: What It Means
The European higher education landscape is mobilizing like never before. On February 18, 2026, 17 leading organizations representing universities, students, and stakeholders across the continent united to propose targeted amendments to the European Commission's draft regulation for Erasmus+ (2028-2034). This collective effort underscores the program's pivotal role in fostering mobility, cooperation, and skills development amid Europe's push for a competitive talent pool.
Erasmus+, the European Union's flagship initiative for education, training, youth, and sport, has transformed lives since 1987, enabling over 16 million participants to gain international experience. Yet, with geopolitical shifts, economic pressures, and the need for a 'Union of Skills,' the sector argues the program must evolve to match ambitions.
Erasmus+ Legacy: A Pillar of European Higher Education
Launched as Erasmus in 1987, the program expanded into Erasmus+ for 2014-2020 and now 2021-2027 with a €26.2 billion budget. It supports student and staff exchanges, joint degrees, and partnerships, with higher education as the largest beneficiary. Between 2014 and 2022 alone, over 2 million students participated in mobility activities, nearly doubling from previous cycles.
A 2025 mid-term evaluation by the European University Association (EUA) surveyed 500 institutions across 49 countries, finding 99% view Erasmus+ as indispensable for high-quality mobility opportunities. It boosts employability—participants are 23% less likely to be unemployed—and enhances institutional internationalization, with 80% of universities reporting stronger global networks.
Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) and European Universities alliances have innovated delivery, reaching disadvantaged groups and aligning with green and digital transitions.
The Commission's Proposal: A Step Forward, But Not Enough?
In July 2025, the EC proposed €40.8 billion for Erasmus+ 2028-2034 as part of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), a 56% hike from the current envelope. Higher education would see continued emphasis on mobility and cooperation, plus new 'excellence scholarships' in strategic areas like AI and sustainability.
However, critics note this maintains per-participant funding levels amid inflation and rising demand. The sector warns it risks diverting resources from core mobility, potentially stalling progress toward the European Education Area's 20% mobility target by 2025 (currently at 12% for recent graduates).
17 Organizations Unite: A Historic Coalition
The amendments are backed by a powerhouse coalition: European University Association (EUA), CESAER, Coimbra Group, Erasmus Student Network (ESN), European Students’ Union (ESU), EURASHE, The Guild, Academic Cooperation Association, AURORA, EAIE, ECIU, European University Foundation (EUF), DAAD, LERU, UNICA, UNIMED, and YERUN. This unity amplifies voices from research-intensive powerhouses to applied sciences and student reps.
- Research focus: LERU and The Guild highlight synergies for talent pipelines.
- Student voice: ESN and ESU push for inclusivity.
- Regional balance: UNIMED and UNICA ensure Mediterranean and capital cities' needs.
EUA Secretary General Amanda Crowfoot stated: “We can make this excellent flagship programme even more impactful and inclusive.”
Core Amendments: Eight Key Proposals
The document outlines precise changes:
- Core reaffirmation: Prioritize learning mobility and cooperation across all fields.
- Budget surge: €60 billion total, with indicative sectoral splits (e.g., €20B HE mobility).
- Governance: Reintroduce committee procedure for MS input.
- Scholarships: Ensure added value, no core diversion.
- Synergies: Link with Horizon Europe, Digital Europe.
- Associations: Pathways for UK, Switzerland.
- Global reach: Boost partner-country mobility.
- Resilience: Crisis support for participants/institutions.
Documents: Joint Amendments PDF, Cover Note.
Why €60 Billion? Data-Driven Case for Investment
Demand outstrips supply: 2021-27 saw 6.2 million mobilities despite COVID, but waitlists persist. A €60B budget enables 50% more participants, targeting underrepresented groups (e.g., adult learners, disadvantaged). Studies show Erasmus+ ROI: €10 return per €1 invested via skills/economy boost.
For universities, it funds faculty exchanges vital for innovation. Without boost, mobility rates stagnate, hampering EU competitiveness vs. US/Asia.
Stakeholder Perspectives: From Students to Leaders
Students via ESU/ESN: “Mobility transforms lives—don't sideline it.” LERU's Kurt Deketelaere: Scholarships must uphold democracy. UNIMED: Mediterranean unis need equity. Reactions post-Feb 18 praise unity, urging Parliament/MS adoption.
As of March 2026, negotiations continue; sector eyes co-decision process.
Addressing Crises and Inclusion Challenges
Ukraine war, Middle East tensions disrupted mobilities; amendments seek dedicated crisis funds. Inclusion push: 20% mobility for disadvantaged by 2030. Step-by-step: Needs assessment → targeted grants → monitoring.
Global Dimension: UK, Switzerland, and Beyond
Post-Brexit UK eyes re-association from 2027; amendments demand clarity. Switzerland stalled—predictable paths needed. International Dimension: Partner countries (e.g., Western Balkans) for mutual benefit, aligning with Europe jobs.
Implications for European Universities and Careers
Success means more university jobs in international offices, enhanced rankings, talent attraction. Fail, and brain drain accelerates. Check career advice for mobility boosts.
EUA Erasmus+ Page
Photo by Desiré Kranenburg on Unsplash
Outlook: Path to Adoption and Next Steps
MFF talks intensify; sector urges swift action. Universities prepare via alliances. For pros: Explore higher ed jobs, rate professors, career advice. Stay engaged—Erasmus+ shapes Europe's future.
