Accessing higher education in Europe : challenges, good practices and a European project’s practical response to current HE realities

Abstract

According to the UNHCR, as of the end of 2022, Europe, encompassing Turkey, served as the host for over a third (36 percent) of the world’s total refugee population. During this period, the number of refugees residing within European nations surged from 7 million at the conclusion of 2021 to a staggering 12.4 million by the end of 2022. This increase was primarily attributed to the influx of millions of refugees from Ukraine, who sought refuge and safety in neighbouring European countries. In addition to geopolitical, economic, social, cultural, ethnic, violent and other realities, the climate crisis is poised to drive a continued increase in migration to Europe, with numerous regions worldwide facing environmental challenges that compel their populations to seek refuge elsewhere. Countries in sub-Saharan Africa, notably the Sahel region, are grappling with prolonged droughts and desertification, while coastal areas face rising sea levels and extreme weather events. In South Asia, frequent and severe monsoons and flooding are becoming commonplace. Additionally, small island nations in the Pacific and the Caribbean are confronting existential threats due to rises in sea-levels. Climate-induced and other hardships are expected to push a growing number of migrants towards Europe, seeking safety and stability in the face of multiple adversities. [excerpt]