The Alternative International Assignments Policies and Practices Survey (AIA) reports offer an in-depth look into the use of international assignments other than long-term expatriate assignments: short-term assignments, permanent moves / one-way transfers, and commuter assignments. The survey explores trends, management, and policies and practices that companies have put in place to move talent effectively and efficiently.

The 2020/2021 survey edition took place during a challenging time throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Most companies are still evaluating what the future will look like, but remain very much focused on managing their mobility programs in the most sustainable and effective manner. Nevertheless, the survey was an opportunity to take the pulse and gain insight on the latest trends in those assignment types.

We specifically asked participants whether the pandemic and its numerous economic and social consequences affected their expectations regarding the evolution of the surveyed assignment types. As expected, more than half —and even 60% for the short-term assignments — say it affected their trend expectations.