Research leaders raise doubts over EU university strategy amid wait for details

Sector in the dark about what to expect after a series of consultations last year

Research experts are anxiously awaiting the detail of a forthcoming EU universities strategy, which they hope will help institutions tackle challenges but fear could be a missed chance to address some of the sector’s biggest problems.

The European Commission is due to publish a proposal for a broad strategy in late January, along with plans for a formal recommendation for member states to build cooperation in higher education. Both will be taken forward by member state ministers in the Council of the EU after being unveiled by research commissioner Mariya Gabriel (pictured).