Bundesrat Approves Continuation of CEEPUS University Exchange Program

On April 10, 2025, the Bundesrat unanimously approved the continuation of the Central European Exchange Programme for University Studies (CEEPUS). This initiative aims to enhance academic exchange among universities in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe. The current agreement, known as CEEPUS-III, is set to expire at the end of April, but the new CEEPUS-IV agreement will take effect on May 1, 2025, ensuring a seamless transition.

In addition to the CEEPUS extension, the Bundesrat also supported amendments to the European Agreement concerning the work of personnel engaged in international road transport (AETR). This adjustment specifically pertains to the revised regulations regarding driving and rest times for professional drivers operating across borders. A significant aspect of this amendment is its extension to several non-EU countries, which is important from an Austrian perspective.

The purpose of the CEEPUS program is to facilitate the exchange of students, faculty, and administrative staff within academic networks among Austrian universities and institutions in member states, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. For the period from 2025 to 2029, approximately EUR4.78 million is allocated to this program.

Supporters of CEEPUS highlighted its role as a strong signal of European solidarity, with the program fostering educational connections and enabling students from outside the EU to gain experience at Austrian research institutions. It was noted that CEEPUS serves as a vital tool for promoting scientific cohesion across Europe.

The initiative aims to enhance Austria's appeal as a scientific hub, despite challenges such as overcrowded universities and rising living costs due to an influx of foreign students. Concerns were raised about the political climate in some universities, where dissenting opinions are reportedly marginalized. However, the government reaffirmed its commitment to uphold academic freedom and protect institutions from ideological attacks.

Furthermore, the Bundesrat members expressed the need for Austria to provide a supportive research environment in light of recent developments in the United States, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a collaborative and open academic landscape.

Amid discussions surrounding the AETR amendment, officials pointed to the necessity of aligning driving and rest time regulations with EU standards to enhance road safety. The amendment is expected to strengthen monitoring capabilities and address issues related to drivers from non-EU countries, thereby preventing social dumping in the transport sector.

In conjunction with these measures, the Bundesrat also approved the modernization of the border agreement with Liechtenstein, which has been in place for over 60 years. The changes aim to reflect contemporary technical and practical requirements, including the incorporation of updated border documentation and the clarification of border delineations.

The discussions around these legislative changes highlight Austria's commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing contemporary challenges in academia and transport sectors. The Bundesrat's decisive actions are seen as essential steps toward reinforcing Austria's position in both educational and transport contexts.