In 2007, in its recommendation (2007)6, the Committee of Ministers defined the different missions of Higher Education:

In keeping with the values of democratic and equitable societies, public authorities should ensure that higher education institutions, while exercising their autonomy, can meet society’s multiple expectations and fulfil their various and equally important objectives, which include:

  • preparation for sustainable employment;
  • preparation for life as active citizens in democratic societies;
  • personal development;
  • the development and maintenance, through teaching, learning and research, of a broad, advanced knowledge base.”

The democratic mission of higher education is therefore at the heart of the Council of Europe’s work. This is notably demonstrated through the organization of several conferences aiming to reflect the social and democratic responsibility of higher education, in partnership with the  International “Consortium for Higher Education, Civic Responsibility and Democracy” and  the European Wergeland Centre