Fundamental Values as the Basis for Constructive Engagement

The 1988 Magna Charta Universitatum (MCU) sets out the fundamental values necessary for universities to prosper. It emphasizes the importance of universities being autonomous, morally and intellectually independent of political authority and economic power, with teaching and research being inseparable. Freedom in research and teaching enables the pursuit of universal knowledge that transcends geographical and political frontiers.

In 2020, a new version retained all the fundamental principles but stressed the responsibilities of universities to engage with and respond to the aspirations and challenges of the world and their communities. One thousand universities from ninety-four countries have now signed the MCU.

As the value of universities for society is being questioned and more and universities are coming under attack from different quarters, the importance of fundamental values has never been greater.

This session will describe the "Living Values Project" and will share learning from the Magna Charta Observatory’s "Responsive and Responsible" research project.