UMONS Officially Confirms Its Adherence to the Magna Charta Universitatum During the Anniversary Event in London

UMONS took part in this global gathering, which brought together representatives from universities around the world to celebrate a symbolic milestone: the surpassing of 1,000 signatories to the Magna Charta Universitatum.

Throughout the three days of exchanges, participants were invited to reflect on an essential and increasingly relevant question: What is the purpose of universities in the contemporary world? This question shaped the discussions and underscored the need to defend—everywhere—the core values on which higher education is built.

In this context, UMONS formally confirmed its adherence to the Magna Charta Universitatum 2020, a gesture highlighting the importance it places on these universal principles. First signed in 1988 on the occasion of the 900th anniversary of the University of Bologna, the Magna Charta remains a global reference for the governance of higher education institutions. Today, it unites more than one thousand universities around a shared foundation of values: academic freedom, institutional autonomy, integrity, social responsibility, and engagement with society.

The revised version of the Charter, adopted in 2020 following extensive consultations led by a multinational working group, updated this foundational document to better address the challenges of the 21st century. It places emphasis on digital transformation, global openness, sustainability, and the growing societal role that universities are expected to play.

By confirming its adherence, UMONS reiterates its commitment to fully joining this international momentum and to upholding the values that have guided the university mission for centuries. This commitment aligns with the institution’s ongoing efforts to defend free research, accessible education, and constructive participation in major societal debates.

More information: https://www.magna-charta.org/