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Webinar on the Democratic Mission of Higher Education Institutions

9 April 2026
Online

Webinar on the Democratic Mission of Higher Education Institutions 

Following up on the dialogue and themes from the 2025 Global Forum, this webinar will explore the role of higher education in promoting democratic citizenship, strengthening student voice and agency, and safeguarding academic freedom. It will lift how universities can rebuild public trust and act as civic institutions within their communities. Attending this seminar offers opportunity to learn from international experts and exchange perspectives on how universities can address contemporary democratic challenges.

The event is organised by the Global Cooperation for the Democratic Mission of Higher Education, comprised of the IAU, the Council of Europe, the International Consortium for Higher Education, Civic Responsibility and Democracy, and the Organization of American States, who welcome the following speakers: 

  • Matjaž Gruden, Director for Democracy, Council of Europe (Moderator)
  • Hilligje van’t Land, Secretary General, International Association of Universities (Welcome words)
  • Yadira Pinilla, Senior Specialist, Department for Human Development, Education and Employment, Organization of American States (Welcome words)
  • Timothy K. Eatman, Professor of Urban Education and Inaugural Dean of Honors Living-Learning Community (2016-2026), Rutgers University - Newark (New Jersey) (Panelist)
  • Syndia A. Nazario-Cardona, Associate Vice President of Government Affairs & Institutional Relations, Ana G. Mendez University (Puerto Rico) (Panelist)
  • Francis W. Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, University of Pretoria; Chair of Universities South Africa (Panelist)
  • Kirsten Roberts-Lyer, Professor and Chair of Human Rights Programme, Central European University (Panelist)
  • Ira Harkavy, Chair of the International Consortium for Higher Education, Civic Responsibility, and Democracy; Barbara and Edward Netter Director, Netter Center for Community Partnerships at the University of Pennsylvania (Closing remarks) 

📌 Theme: Global Solidarity, Learning, and Action to Renew Higher Education’s Democratic and Civic Mission
🗓️ Date: 9 April, 2026 | 15.0-16.00 CET
📍 Location: Online
🔗 More information here, and registration here. 

Keywords
democracy
Webinar
Universities associated
University of Pretoria
Central European University
University of Pennsylvania
Organisations associated
International Association of Universities (IAU)
Council of Europe
Event category
IAU Members and Partners