Changing perspectives on internationalisation of higher education in the Netherlands

the role of Nuffic

This article addresses the changing perspectives within society and politics on internationalisation of higher education in the Netherlands in the last decade. It shows how these changes influence government policies and the role of Nuffic as the Dutch organisation for internationalisation. From a generally accepted positive development that was more or less a given, it has become highly politicized with concerns for the efficiency, quality and accessibility of higher education for Dutch students. Even though most studies did not find evidence on these suspected negative effects, the government policies respond to the public concerns. By reflecting on the Dutch experience lessons can be drawn. It is important to be conscious of larger societal developments and the different values and goals actors can have, the role of funding and the importance of evidence-informed decision making. This can help to better navigate shifting public and political perspectives on internationalisation.

Keywords: Accessibility, Efficiency, Funding, Higher education, International
students, Internationalisation, Netherlands, Nuffic, Perspectives,
Public debate, Quality, Rationales

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36197/INT.4-2021.02