Impact of international professional mobility programmes: A systematic literature review

Abstract

This systematic review explores the impact of international professional mobility (IPM) programmes for continuing professional development by addressing two key research questions: (1) What is the impact of IPM on participants? (2) What contributions do participants make at organisational, community, and national levels after participating in IPM? Drawing on 78 peer-reviewed studies and employing a Mixed-Methods Research Synthesis approach, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of how IPM fosters professional expertise, intercultural competencies, and career advancement, while also generating broader societal impacts. Despite reintegration challenges ? such as resistance to new ideas and weakened domestic networks ? participants contribute significantly to organisational innovation, community engagement, and cross-border collaboration. The review identifies three pressing areas for future research: the need for detailed analysis of specific programme characteristics, the complexities of post-mobility reintegration, and the fragmented use of theoretical frameworks in the existing literature. By synthesising the evidence, this review offers critical insights for policymakers, funding agencies, programme designers, and participants aiming to maximise the professional and societal value of IPM initiatives.