Erasmus Student Network (ESN) has actively participated in the public consultation for the interim evaluation of Erasmus+ 2021-2027. This contribution is based on a combination of ESN’s research, policy initiatives since 2021, and practical experience gained from collaborating with students, Higher Education Institutions, National Agencies, and the European Commission.
ESN acknowledges the positive steps taken in implementing the Erasmus+ 2021-2027 priorities, considering it a move in the right direction. Students still view Erasmus+ as a tremendous success story. While the inclusion priority has seen successful implementation, with students benefiting from new inclusion measures and expressing increased satisfaction with Higher Education Institutions, challenges persist in other priority areas. Administrative procedures lack streamlining and digitalisation, and student engagement in local community activities during exchanges remains a concern compared to 2021. On green mobility, the green top-up faced challenges, but ESN welcomes the new travel support introduced in the Programme Guide 2024. The anticipated increase in financial support for international students in the coming year is seen as promising, and ESN continues to advocate for additional funding in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) budget discussions.
The contribution addresses aspects for improvement in the mid-term review across five core areas:
- Aspects for improvement based on the Priorities of the Programme for 2021-2027
- Aspects for improvement based on the mobility cycle
- Aspects for improvement on other mobility types
- Aspects to ensure that Mobility must be a reality for all
- Aspects for improvement on the Programme Governance
The document concludes with a set of recommendations derived from these core areas. For a detailed review of ESN’s input and contribution, please refer to the attached document.
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