IAUs

IAUs typically denotes the International Association of Universities, a global non-governmental organization that represents universities and other higher education institutions worldwide. It functions as a network that promotes international collaboration, policy dialogue, and the sharing of knowledge among its members.

Established in 1950 in Paris with support from UNESCO, the IAU operates independently to foster cooperation in higher education and research. Its secretariat is in Paris, and it coordinates programs through member-driven networks and committees.

Membership includes hundreds of universities and national or regional associations from over 100 countries. Members benefit from opportunities to collaborate on international research projects, mobility programs, accreditation and quality assurance discussions, and shared data and best practices.

Activities include policy development and advisory work on higher education internationalization, quality assurance, mobility and credit transfer, research collaboration, and sustainable development in higher education. It organizes international events and publishes reports, guidelines, and data resources to support institutions and policymakers.

Governance rests with a General Assembly and an elected executive committee, supported by a small secretariat. The organization maintains formal links with UNESCO and other international bodies while retaining its independent status.

As a platform for dialogue among universities, IAUs aims to advance quality, inclusivity, and global relevance in higher education, fostering cooperation across regions and disciplines and enabling institutions to navigate shared challenges and opportunities.