As part of the Euro-Mediterranean Conference on Higher Education, Research and Innovation (EM-HERI 2026), the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) organized, on 24 June 2026, a high-level roundtable on the “Arab–European Integration Initiative for Joint Scientific and Academic Mobility”. 

The event brought together presidents of Arab and European universities, senior officials, experts, and representatives of higher education and research institutions from across the Arab and European regions. It was also attended by Ms. Petra Kezman, Deputy Secretary-General for Human Development at the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM).

The roundtable discussed the Arab–European Integration Initiative for Joint Scientific and Academic Mobility, presented by ALECSO in collaboration with several of its partners. The initiative aims to establish a more integrated framework for Arab–European academic and scientific mobility by promoting the exchange of students and researchers between Arab and European universities, supporting the mutual recognition of academic qualifications awarded by participating institutions, and fostering joint scientific research and innovation.

Following extensive discussions, participants reviewed successful international experiences—particularly the European Higher Education Area (EHEA)—while taking into account the specificities of Arab education systems. They also explored ways to develop common reference frameworks to promote quality assurance, transparency, and the comparability of academic qualifications and study programmes.

Representatives of Arab and European universities, institutions, and organizations welcomed ALECSO's Arab–European Integration Initiative for Joint Scientific and Academic Mobility. They affirmed their commitment to joining the initiative and developing a roadmap and practical implementation mechanisms for the 2026–2030 period. This involves establishing institutional frameworks for academic mobility, strengthening quality assurance and accreditation systems, and harmonizing standards related to the recognition of academic qualifications.

ALECSO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Arab–European cooperation in this field and building strategic partnerships between Arab higher education and scientific research institutions and their European counterparts. These partnerships aim to strengthen the international standing of Arab universities while contributing to the development of the knowledge economy and the achievement of sustainable development.

The roundtable concluded with a joint call by ALECSO and its partners to finalize the initiative's framework and move from dialogue to practical implementation, thereby making Arab–European scientific and academic integration a catalyst for enhanced cooperation, innovation, and equal opportunities.