The Council of Europe’s Education Department renewes its focus on the democratic mission of higher education, reinforcing its commitment to academic freedom as a fundamental pillar of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. This initiative builds on a series of policy instruments, including Committee of Ministers recommendations, as well as the Council of Europe’s Education Strategy 2024-2030, "Learners First", and the 2023 Summit of Heads of State and Government that further stressed the importance of protecting higher education’s democratic role. 

Against this backdrop and the Secretary General’s initiative on the New Democratic Pact, the project on democratic mission of higher education reflects the commitment to protect and promote the fundamental values of higher education, and to advance the work the premises of which were given in the recommendations, while working on adapting our legal and policy frameworks to meet new realities. 

News & Updates

24 April 2025 – Academic Freedom Insights: Exploring Legal and Political Threats to Academic Freedom

The policy briefs published in a ten-part series are designed to explore pressing challenges to academic freedom, raise awareness, and support policy development across Europe and beyond. The briefs are accompanied by dedicated webinars to foster dialogue and exchange.

Find out more: Academic Freedom Insights Series

Activities

Key Activities:

Academic Freedom in Action

Academic freedom is a fundamental right and a key component of higher education’s democratic mission in the sense that provides essential checks and balances to any well-functioning a democratic system. The Council of Europe therefore actively promotes and protects academic freedom among its member countries and beyond.

Find out more about the Academic Freedom in Action project

Global Forum on Higher Education 2025: Renewal of Democratic and Civil Mission

3-4 June 2025 | Charles University, Prague - Czech Republic

This Forum, now in its eighth edition, represents a longstanding collaboration between the Council of Europe and the International Consortium for Higher Education, Civic Responsibility, and Democracy, joined by Organization of American States and the International Association of Universities. Bringing together leaders, scholars, and practitioners from across the globe, the Forum will offer a platform for reflection and dialogue on higher education’s essential role in safeguarding and renewing democratic values in an increasingly complex world.

Find out more about the Global Forum on Higher Education 2025

Democratisation of Science

The democratisation of science refers to efforts aimed at increasing public access, participation, and understanding of scientific knowledge and processes. It encompasses various aspects, including making scientific information more accessible, promoting scientific literacy and science communication, engaging diverse communities in scientific endeavours, and fostering public involvement in scientific decision-making.

Find out more about the Democratisation of Science project

Local Democratic Mission of Higher Education

Resources & Tools

- Academic Freedom Insights
- Report on the Erosion of Academic Freedom (to be published in October 2025)

- Academic Freedom Policymaking at the Council of Europe
- Higher Education Series (2000-2024)

Expert Working Group on Democratic Mission of Higher Education

Contact

Project lead: Jelena Drca
Email: [email protected]