Why Our International Engagement Matters

In an increasingly interconnected world, global challenges require global solutions. Our involvement in international networks allows Queen’s to:

• Collaborate on research with leading global institutions
• Influence educational policy at an international level
• Enhance mobility for students, academics, and staff
• Access new funding opportunities for global projects
• Contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals

These partnerships are vital to our mission of delivering societal impact on a global scale.

Our Key International Networks

We are active members of a range of influential networks and consortia. A selection of these networks is shared here. Explore how each supports our vision and values:

1. European University Association

The European University Association (EUA) is the representative organisation of universities and national rectors’ conferences in 48 European countries. EUA plays a crucial role in the Bologna Process and in influencing EU policies on higher education, research and innovation. 

2. UNICA

UNICA is an institutional Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe. It was founded in 1990, and it is currently made up of 54 universities from 41 capital cities of Europe. Our membership enables collaborative engagement with top-tier European institutions across the network. 

3. ACU – Association of Commonwealth Universities

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is the world’s first and oldest international university network, established in 1913. Our participation strengthens connections across the Commonwealth, supporting academic cooperation and shared development goals. 

4. UK-Malaysia University Consortium

Queen’s reaffirms its commitment to partnership with Malaysian partner universities through this important association of UK and Malaysian Higher Education Institutions. This flagship initiative has been set up by the British Council in Malaysia working in cooperation with Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education. 

5. Sustainable Development Solutions Network

As the world's largest knowledge network for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) works to mobilise the world's universities, think tanks, and national laboratories to identify and develop global and local solutions for action on the world's most critical sustainable development challenges. Queen’s University Belfast and University College Cork co-host the regional SDSN network on the island of Ireland.

Queen’s staff also contribute to an extensive range of disciplinary focused networks such as the Law Schools Global League,

Get Involved

We encourage Queen’s staff and students to engage with our international networks—whether through joint research, attending global conferences, or participating in collaborative projects. To learn more or to explore partnership opportunities, contact our International Partnerships Team.

Together, we are building a more connected, impactful, and inclusive global university.