In a global context marked by democratic backsliding, rising authoritarianism, and challenges to human rights and the rule of law, higher education institutions have a renewed responsibility to uphold and strengthen democratic values. The Global Forum on Higher Education 2025: Renewal of the Democratic and Civic Mission will provide a critical space for international dialogue and collaboration to advance this goal.
This high-level, invitation-only event will take place on 3-4 June 2025 at Charles University in Prague. It is co-organised by four global partners: the Council of Europe, the International Consortium for Higher Education, Civic Responsibility, and Democracy, the International Association of Universities, and the Organization of American States, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic and Charles University.
The Forum will bring together around 140 leaders from higher education institutions and public authorities, student and civil society representatives, across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, and the Americas. Together, they will explore how higher education can better contribute to democratic renewal in an increasingly complex and polarised world.
Matjaž Gruden, Director for Democracy at the Council of Europe, will deliver the welcoming remarks, setting the tone for the two days of discussion and exchange. Opening statements will follow from hosts from the Czech Republic, with an address by Mikuláš Bek, Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, and the representatives of the four partner organisations.
Key highlights of the programme include:
- A keynote address by Patrick Deane, Principal of Queen’s University (Canada), on “Envisioning the Future of Democratic Engagement in Higher Education.”
- Plenary sessions featuring global perspectives on universities’ democratic and civic responsibilities, the role of students and youth in shaping democratic education, and the democratisation of knowledge.
- A set of interactive workshops on topics such as design thinking for civic engagement, academic freedom in a changing world, and partnerships between universities and public authorities in crisis contexts.
- A policy-oriented closing panel that will articulate next steps for strengthening higher education’s democratic mission globally.
A dedicated side event will also present the Council of Europe’s upcoming report on threats to academic freedom, with contributions from members of the expert working group.
The Global Forum will promote inclusive dialogue, share innovative practices, and chart a collaborative course toward a more democratic future, on campus and beyond.
Find out more: Global Forum on Higher Education 2025 - Education
