Are Intercultural Competencies the Key to International Collaboration?: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Developing communication skills and intercultural awareness is the engine for collaboration and networks to address complex social issues. This article describes a systematic literature review analyzing the scientific evidence from January 2016 to June 2022 in publications available in the Scopus and Web of Science databases regarding intercultural and global competencies developed to encourage international, professional collaboration. A systematic mapping of the literature was performed firsthand, and selection criteria were applied to determine the articles to be reviewed, resulting in 45 eligible studies. The analysis focused on three competencies: intercultural communication, intercultural sensitivity, and intercultural responsibility. The results highlighted the relevant trend and predominance of (a) qualitative studies, especially case study designs; (b) the themes of intercultural and global competencies; (c) research involving intercultural communication competency, and (d) intercultural education. This study aims to be of value to academic, scientific communities, and those interested in training, communication, and educational innovation.