The third edition of the Congress took place on 4–5 December 2025 at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. The overarching theme of the event was science diplomacy – one of the key elements of contemporary international policy in science and higher education.
The 3rd Internationalisation Congress confirmed that the internationalisation of higher education and science had become a key structural process shaping the quality, resilience, and global positioning of the Polish academic and research system. Discussions held during the Congress demonstrated that internationalisation was no longer perceived as a set of isolated activities, but rather as a long-term, strategic component of state policy, closely linked to economic development, labour market needs, security considerations, and foreign policy objectives.
Participants consistently emphasised that effective internationalisation required a systemic approach involving higher education institutions, research organisations, public administration, and diplomatic services. It was indicated that internationalisation needed to be embedded horizontally across institutional missions and governance structures, while remaining flexible enough to address regional specificities and diverse institutional profiles.
A key conclusion of the Congress was the growing importance of science diplomacy as a tool for strengthening Poland’s international position. Science diplomacy was understood as a field connecting research, higher education, public diplomacy, and economic cooperation. It was highlighted that scientific cooperation based on trust, long-term partnerships, and expert exchange not only enhanced research quality but also contributed to building Poland’s reputation as a reliable and responsible international partner.
The Congress underlined the role of science as a strategic national resource. Internationalisation was recognised as a factor improving research excellence and teaching quality, increasing economic competitiveness, and supporting the development of human capital capable of responding to global challenges such as climate change, technological transformation, demographic shifts, and geopolitical instability. At the same time, participants stressed that internationalisation should not be assessed solely through quantitative indicators, such as the number of international students, but also through the quality and durability of research cooperation, talent circulation, graduate outcomes, and long-term impact on society and the economy.
Throughout the debates, strong attention was paid to the relationship between internationalisation and security. The need for a more selective and strategic approach to international cooperation was emphasised, including conscious partner selection and the development of mechanisms to address risks related to research security in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. At the same time, it was stressed that these measures should not undermine the openness and universal character of science, but rather strengthen institutional capacities to protect research integrity.
Another important conclusion concerned the need for coordination among public institutions and policy areas. Participants pointed out that internationalisation policies required coherence between higher education, science, foreign affairs, economic policy, migration, and visa systems. Insufficient coordination was identified as a potential barrier that could limit the effectiveness of existing instruments and programmes supporting international cooperation.
Discussions also highlighted the role of diplomatic missions and institutions involved in public diplomacy in implementing science diplomacy objectives. Attention was drawn to the importance of adequate human resources, expert support, and effective tools for promoting Polish science, culture, and language abroad. The potential of international alumni of Polish higher education institutions was recognised as a valuable asset for strengthening Poland’s long-term international networks and influence.
Examples of international cooperation, including in polar research, demonstrated that Poland possessed unique infrastructure and expertise that enhanced its visibility and credibility in global research networks. It was emphasised that sustained investment in long-term projects, research infrastructure, and international partnerships was essential for maintaining competitiveness and ensuring Poland’s active participation in shaping global research agendas.
In conclusion, the 3rd Internationalisation Congress confirmed that internationalisation and science diplomacy were indispensable for the future development of Polish higher education and science. A successful strategy in this area was seen as one that remained inclusive, balanced, and based on close cooperation between academic communities, public authorities, and international partners. The Congress provided a platform for reflection and exchange of experience, contributing valuable input to further work on the national strategy for the internationalisation of higher education and science.
All editions of the Congress are implemented under the project Strategy for Internationalisation of Polish Higher Education and Science, funded by the European Funds for Social Development (FERS).
Event venue:
Faculty of Law and Administration, Adam Mickiewicz University
Al. Niepodległości 53, 61-714 Poznań
The Congress was broadcast live online. Participants were able to join the event remotely and follow all key speeches, debates, and expert panels via the internet.
Livestream in Polish:
III Kongres Umiędzynarodowienia – Day 1
III Kongres Umiędzynarodowienia – Day 2
Livestream in English:
3rd Congress of Internationalisation – Day 1
3rd Congress of Internationalisation – Day 2