Over three days, participants engaged in productive discussions, collaborative planning, and shared updates on IN-KEY, a project that aims to make international internships more accessible for young people across Europe.

Although over half of university students want an international internship, very few Erasmus participants are able to obtain one.

Major barriers include disabilities, financial hardship, housing costs, language and cultural challenges, and lack of family support for first-generation university students. Research shows that 78% of students with disabilities cannot access international internships, while participation among disadvantaged students is declining. IN-KEY is currently conducting research and surveys with companies, students, and universities, and will later create focus groups and practical tools to improve access.