A new concept for the future EHEA

Abstract

The Bologna Follow Up Group (BFUG) is currently charged with discussing new priorities for the future of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and to this end has organized national consultations as well as discussions within the BFUG itself. In addition to defining new priorities, it appears essential to strengthen the awareness of the principles underlying higher education beyond national or even macro-regional borders. To go beyond lists of priorities and principles, however important and valid in themselves, it seems useful to elaborate a convincing holistic concept or way of visualizing the desired future of higher education and the EHEA's role in achieving it. Such a concept or vision can give direction to the continuing reform process and inspire countries and higher education institutions to work creatively together. To this end, the EHEA may need to transform itself from a loose intergovernmental framework to a more cohesive space where, supported by the necessary normative reforms, higher education institutions and their stakeholders can freely and effectively pursue their collaborative mission. The paper explores whether the goal of creating a 'European higher education community' by 2030 can help to give direction to this complex process and what that might entail.