European University Alliances: A case study of Portugal

The current study examines the participation of Portuguese higher education institutions (HEIs) in the European Universities Alliances (EUAs), an initiative by the European Commission to enhance internationalisation within European Higher Education Area (EHEA). Traditionally, Portugal has been known as a semi-peripheral country in the international landscape. However, a recent shift has seen a marked increase in international student enrolment in Portuguese HEIs, reflecting a change in Portugal's efforts towards higher education internationalisation. A mixed-method research design was used, combining quantitative data from the European Tertiary Education Register and EDUSTAT with qualitative analysis of institutional mission statements. This approach provided a comprehensive view of the characteristics and strategic orientations of Portuguese HEIs within EUAs. The findings revealed the Portuguese HEIs' active participation in EUAs, showcasing a substantial commitment to the European University Initiative. Approximately 19% of Portuguese HEIs are engaged in EUAs, predominantly larger institutions with a strong focus on student mobility, international projects, and research collaborations. The study contributes to the literature in the field, with implications for future comparative analyses across countries. As the EUAs continue to evolve, further research endeavours will be crucial in unlocking their full potential and advancing European higher education.