The process of intensifying transnational, regional cooperation in the quality assurance of degree programmes is becoming ever more important. Given the internationalisation that is taking place in the field of higher education and in the globalisation of labour markets, this development cannot only be seen in Europe, but also in the emerging economies, in countries in transition and in developing countries. An international conference organised by the German Rectors' Conference (Hochschulrektorenkonferenz – HRK) and the German Academic Exchange Service (Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst) in Bonn from 18 to 20 June 2007 will address the general frameworks for and practical implementation of regional quality assurance networks in the higher education sector. The conference will enable university rectors and presidents as well as representatives of international higher education organisations, the World Bank, the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) that is financing the conference, plus students and representatives of companies and trade unions to discuss relevant questions and topics.

At the end of the conference, conference participants adopted a joint statement that addresses quality assurance players in the higher education sector, the universities themselves, the ministries and regional coordination bodies, as well as international sponsors and donors.