Redefining global mobility: the case for distinguishing international students from net migration figures
By James Pitman, Managing Director UK and Europe
In an increasingly interconnected world, the movement of people across borders has become a topic of intense debate. While immigration policies vary from country to country, there's a growing need to reassess how we categorise different types of global mobility. One group that deserves particular attention is international students, whose temporary residency and unique contributions to host nations set them apart from other categories of immigrant. Global perspectives on international students vary, and here, I lay out my case for a more nuanced approach to their status, given the undeniably positive impact they make on their countries of study.
Tourists vs. students: a matter of perception
The first significant category of temporary visitors is tourists. Generally, the public is supportive of this type of temporary guest, recognising their role in economic growth, cultural exchange and fostering international goodwill. Tourists typically return home with newfound perspectives, serving as informal ambassadors for their host countries.
The arguments around international students are more nuanced because some students do stay after their degree studies to work, but the vast majority (over 80% in the UK) leave soon after completing their studies and never intend to become permanent immigrants.
The multifaceted impact of international students
International students bring a wealth of benefits to their host countries:
- Cultural diversity: a diverse campus is an enriched one, and international students bring with them a mix of perspectives, traditions, and experiences.
- Academic excellence: international students often contribute to raised academic standards in classrooms and on league tables.
- Research and innovation: international students bring fresh ideas and approaches to solving global challenges.
- Global networks: through their diverse connections, international cooperation and diplomacy is enhanced by international students
- Skill exchange: they bring unique skills and knowledge that can fill gaps in the host country's workforce and contribute to knowledge transfer.
- Economic contribution: international students contribute to local economies through tuition fees and living expenses, often supporting jobs in education and related sectors.
The case for reclassification
The current classification of international students as immigrants stems from the United Nations definition, which considers anyone spending more than 12 months in a foreign country as an immigrant. However, this definition does not account for the temporary nature of most international students' stays and their unique position in society.
This misclassification has led to international students being caught up in immigration debates and reduction targets in several countries, including the UK, Netherlands, Italy, Australia, Canada, Sweden, Denmark etc. Such debates often overlook the invaluable cultural and academic enrichment these students bring to their host countries.
A call for change
Based on this, there is an urgent need to consider the evidence and revise our categories. In many respects, international students are more akin to long-term cultural ambassadors than immigrants. Their presence fosters mutual understanding, promotes global citizenship, and prepares domestic students for an increasingly interconnected world.
We need a more nuanced approach to immigration statistics and policy. Countries should consider separating temporary residents, such as international students, from their general immigration figures when debating policy. In many cases they already do this with tourists and as many commentators have stated, international students are nothing more than education tourists and highly valuable ones at that. This would allow for a more accurate representation of permanent immigration trends while recognising the unique and valuable contribution of international students to societal and academic growth. Furthermore, there is a case for the United Nations to refine its definition of an immigrant in order to prevent the conflation of different types of migrants, particularly those that are temporary and those that are permanent. Given the increasing hostility to immigration in many countries around the world, it has never been more important to decouple temporary migration- eg students and tourists from the often toxic and politicised debate around immigration.
Conclusion
As governments worldwide grapple with immigration policies, it's crucial to recognise the distinct nature of international student mobility. By reclassifying international students and acknowledging their temporary status and many contributions, countries can maintain the benefits of a truly global education sector while separately addressing legitimate concerns about permanent immigration.
This is not just about numbers; it's about the real impact of international students on our societies, research capabilities, and global understanding. We need a fair and productive conversation about immigration that doesn't unfairly target one of our most valuable global resources – international students and the cross-cultural bridges they build.
As a university leader, you understand the immense value international students bring to your campus. But in today's complex policy landscape, showcasing this impact is more crucial than ever.
Study Group's global experts can help you align your approach with evolving perspectives on international student mobility. Request a comprehensive review of your institution's internationalisation strategy by reaching out to our team.