INSPIRE

INSPIRE supports the implementation of the Principles and Guidelines to Strengthen the Social Dimension of Higher Education (PAGs) across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). It addresses challenges in access, equity, and inclusion through evidence-based collaboration, assisting the BFUG’s TPG D on Social Dimension and helping EHEA member states advance inclusive policies for diverse and underrepresented student populations.

Building on the Yerevan (2015), Rome (2020), and Tirana (2024) Communiqués, the project emphasizes practical tools and strategies to tackle inequalities, mental health, housing costs, and discrimination. Aligned with Erasmus+ priorities and the European Strategy for Universities, INSPIRE promotes inclusivity in higher education by addressing socio- economic, health, and cultural barriers.

Through peer learning, country reviews, actionable toolkits, and collaboration, INSPIRE aims to close implementation gaps, advance measurable progress for the 2027 social dimension report, and foster a more inclusive and sustainable European higher education system.

Aim

The aim of INSPIRE is to make the social dimension a defining feature of higher education across the European Higher Education Area. The project focuses on turning political commitments into action, equipping governments, institutions and students with the tools to address inequality and create inclusive systems. It seeks to remove barriers linked to socio-economic background, health, housing and discrimination, ensuring that all learners have a fair chance to access, participate in and succeed in higher education.

Main Objectives

INSPIRE will connect countries and stakeholders in a space of exchange and cooperation, encouraging dialogue and the transfer of good practices. National strategies will be reinforced through country reviews that help identify progress, gaps and clear directions for improvement.

Practical resources and toolkits will be developed to bring the Principles and Guidelines closer to implementation, offering concrete guidance for policymakers and institutions. The project also aims to support the Bologna Process and the 2027 Implementation Report, ensuring that the social dimension is embedded as a measurable and lasting achievement across the EHEA.

News and Events

Call for expressions of interest: Country reviews on the social dimension of higher education

We are pleased to invite all European Higher Education Area (EHEA) member states to express their interest in participating in a country review of their social dimension policy in 2026, as part of the Erasmus+ project INSPIRE – Inclusive National Strategies for the Implementation of EHEA Principles for the Social Dimension.

How does the expression of interest work? Please send your expression of interest (and/or any questions) to the INSPIRE project Coordinator and the BFUG TPG-D Co-Chair: secretariat@esu-online.org by 15 November 2025, stating why your ministry is interested in a country review, the current stage of development of your social dimension policy and whether you have any specific questions for the INSPIRE project team to consider. Please attach any relevant documents that contain information on your national policy of social dimension in higher education. The INSPIRE project provides funding for three country reviews. If there are more than three applications, a selection will be made. Priority will be given to countries whose social dimension policies are at a more advanced stage of implementation and offer lessons transferable to other EHEA members. Regional diversity will also be considered. The 3 selected countries will be announced at the BFUG Meeting on 15-16 December 2025 in Copenhagen.

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