Budget cuts are everywhere, if not Europeans’ purchasing power. At the end of 2022, a study by StaffMe revealed alarming figures. To cope with inflation, 73% of students decide to consume less, ‘64% to work more and 17% to ask their relatives for more help.’ In the face of such data, it seems appropriate to look at Erasmus Plus mobility for young people, jobseekers and teaching professionals. What are the consequences for the Erasmus+ sector ? Does Erasmus Plus in the age of inflation change the spirit of mobility?
READ: Why organize an Erasmus+ mobility ?
Inflation: what impact on Erasmus Plus?
The short time available, and the lack of official data from the Erasmus Plus Agency, make it impossible to draw up a concrete assessment. Is the number of applicants who decide to go on an Erasmus Plus course starting to wane? Just over a year after the ‘Erasmus+ 35th Anniversary’ event, which celebrated the mobility of 12 million Europeans since its creation in 1987, the question is causing concern in universities. Paola, in charge of mobility at the Erasmus Plus office at La Sapienza in Rome, told us by telephone that she senses hesitation on the part of departing students. Jobseekers and future trainees are also hesitant. Economically speaking, the current economic climate does not suggest any increase in salaries and/or internship benefits. In other words, how can we be sure that embarking on a mobility project won’t be synonymous with job insecurity in an era of inflation?
To find out more: How to manage your internship budget
Erasmus Plus in the age of inflation: adopting the right reflexes
First of all, let’s remember that the ‘Erasmus+ celebrates its 35th anniversary’ meeting in 2022 announced changes within the program as well as a major ambition: that of ‘benefiting an entire generation.’ At the heart of their preoccupations, and as demonstrated by their turnaround in recent years, is inclusivity.
Ahead of a potential increase in Erasmus Plus budgets, here are a few tried-and-tested tips:
- Beyond the criterion of professional training, choose a destination that suits your finances
- Inflation is not the same in all countries, so find out about the economic situation.
- Teachers, get in touch with your Erasmus provider to start a discussion.
- If possible, anticipate your departures by a few semesters.
- Look for an internship host company that offers significant benefits: transport reimbursement, luncheon vouchers, etc.
- Consider certain types of accommodation rather than others: youth hostels, homestays…
Keep the spirit of mobility alive! Going on Erasmus in the age of inflation shouldn’t be a source of stress, but a life experience!
Are you in this situation? How do you live it? Don’t hesitate to share your story on Mobi Trainee’s social networks!
Read more:
- Erasmus Plus for jobseekers
- The advantages of an Erasmus Plus service provider: deciphering the situation
