Dynamics of international research collaboration in higher education in the global majority systems: Evidence from three contexts

A purpose of global research is to address challenges faced by all humanity. To achieve this, it is crucial to foster global collaborations that promote learning from each other on equal terms. Previous studies have predominantly focused on the Global North, with inadequate attention paid to other parts of the world. In this regard, investigating international research collaborations (IRC), especially with a focus on less researched parts of the world, is essential. Against this backdrop, this study investigates the dynamics of IRC as perceived and practiced in the selected research systems of global majority, a collective term used in the literature to refer to the societies described as non-white and outside of Global North. Specifically, the study adopted a qualitative multiple case study approach in the Chinese, Ghanaian and Turkish research systems (in alphabetical order). Despite the significant variations among the selected systems, our findings reveal three common challenges that contribute to unequal dynamics in IRC. This article discusses these three common themes, while also emphasizing the nuanced differences among the systems. Through an analytical lens of promoting a more equal global system versus perpetuating inequalities, we shed light on the need for change in IRC practices. Copyright © 2025 The Author(s).