Obstacles

Mobility processes potentially trigger a  number of obstacles, for example:

• researchers’ fear of being « forgotten » by national academic circles during their absence ;
   
• logistical problems linked to moving countries
   
• gaps in social security associated with stays abroad, particularly when they are financed by grants and subsidies ;
   
• difficulties in combining mobility with life as a couple and family life.
   

In the face of these obstacles, a more open definition of mobility is called for. There are indeed other ways of being mobile. Advances in technology allow international cooperation and the development of networks that no longer rely solely on people travelling around for extended periods of time.

It is important to also take distance with the   « imperative  of mobility  » and ask oneself purposeful questions in regard to one's specific situation:  what objectives? When to leave? What expected added-value?  What implications or sacrifices? etc.