IntegrityStar, July 2026 edition
International collaboration can advance research and the free exchange of ideas. The expectations for how we engage with international entities is found in the newly implemented International Engagement Policy. This new policy establishes clear procedures for how the university conducts international activities, ensuring transparency and compliance with State and Federal laws.
Why This Policy Is Important
UCF encourages open research and global partnerships when they are free from inappropriate foreign influence. Federal and state governments have both introduced laws and regulations requiring universities to carefully manage international relationships and activities. The International Engagement Policy helps the university balance these priorities by supporting international collaboration while complying with these evolving legal and regulatory requirements.
Several regulatory drivers directly shape this policy, including:
- Florida Statutes addressing foreign influence (e.g., §§ 101, 288.860, 1010.25, 1010.35, 1010.36, 1012.977)
- Florida Board of Governors Regulation 9.012 Foreign Influence
- Ongoing federal guidance and national security considerations related to protecting research and sensitive information
These requirements are designed to safeguard research integrity, ensure transparency, and mitigate risks associated with foreign influence in research and academics.
What Employees Need to Know
Here are some key expectations to help you stay compliant:
- Follow all applicable laws and UCF requirements related to international activities, including agreements and contracts.
- Understand disclosure and approval obligations tied to foreign affiliations or engagements before they occur, including travel-related restrictions.
- Be mindful of risks and immediately report concerns related to inappropriate foreign influence.
You are not expected to navigate these requirements alone. The following offices can help to provide guidance on international activities, assist with assessing and managing any risks, and offer tools and resources to meet regulatory requirements:
- Office of International Collaboration and Export Control,
- University Compliance and Ethics,
- Research Compliance Office, and
- UCF Global.
Key Takeaways
International engagement is essential to UCF’s mission, but it must be done responsibly. By following the expectations set forth in the International Engagement Policy, we can continue to collaborate worldwide while protecting our research, our institution, and our community.
If you’re unsure whether an activity triggers requirements under this policy, seek guidance early. For more information, please read this edition’s FAQs on this topic. Together, we can advance UCF’s global impact while safeguarding what matters most.