European Commission sets out steps for a Mediterranean University

The European Commission has published an Action Plan for a Pact for the Mediterranean including steps towards creating a Mediterranean University. The plan, which was presented to representatives of EU member states and countries of the southern Mediterranean on 17/04/2026, aims to strengthen cooperation between EU universities and those from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

In the first phase, a secretariat will coordinate efforts at greater cooperation and university consortia will drive regional collaboration.

The aim is to develop :
• Stronger university networks through joint degree programmes and micro-credentials
• Greater student, staff and researcher mobility

There will also be a feasibility study to explore the creation of a transnational Mediterranean university, with campuses across the region. This institution would aim to restore and promote cultural heritage sites and landmarks.

Announcing the action plan, Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy said: “The Pact for the Mediterranean will mobilise billions in European…