The Erasmus Student Network has launched a petition to the European Commission and the European Parliament to create an Erasmus programme which encourages social integration & intercultural awareness through volunteering and engaging with local communities during an international exchange.

The petition is accompanied by the SocialErasmus Charter which examines the key elements that should form the backbone of an Erasmus experience. Additionally, the project features supporting measures for all involved actors, including recognition of volunteering activities in Higher Education Institutions. This will allow for the next Erasmus programme 2021-2027 to multiply the results of the investment in each participant and support the creation of a society of active citizens. The initiative is also rooted in large-scale research (ESNsurvey 2016, page 53) which proves that only one-third of international students developed a high number of local friendships as expected.

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