Explanation: This graph shows the evolution of the ratio between the number of applications funded by FWO for Belgian and international researchers at Flemish universities. For a more nuanced view of this ratio, the graph also provides the option to further zoom in on the following parameters: type of funding, gender, and discipline. When selecting a line, it is possible to view the underlying distribution among these categories in more detail.
How to use this chart? How to export the displayed data and/or chart?
Sources: The data is provided by FWO, and this chart offers an interactive way to view similar information as presented in the annual reports since 2010.
Time evolution of applications funded by FWO-Flanders for Belgians and international researchers.
Research staff in Flanders is becoming more international (from 19% funded FWO applications by non-Belgians in 2013 to 37% in 2023).
International researchers mainly come from Europe (70%) and Asia (18%). 
Internationalization is more prominent among young researchers (pre-doc, post-doc). 
An increase in internationalization is present across all disciplines, most notably in the humanities (47% of FWO applications by non-Belgians) and least in the social sciences (26% of FWO applications by non-Belgians). 
Increase in internationalization is present for all genders. Internationalization contributes to the broader exchange of scientific expertise, facilitates intercultural learning, and establishes dynamic research networks. In Flanders, as elsewhere in the world, international experience is increasingly seen as an asset within university education and research. For Flemish researchers, there are growing opportunities to conduct (post)doctoral research abroad. Conversely, this trend also translates into increasing internationalization among the teaching staff and research personnel at Flemish universities. Despite this evolution, the conscious implementation of various aligned forms of internationalization remains a significant challenge for the future. It is therefore important to ensure that international researchers feel welcome at our universities and quickly become familiar with the operations of the host institution. As the Young Academy, we see internationalization as a key driver behind an open and excellent research and education culture (read more in our blog).
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