The University of Bologna is honoured to host the forthcoming General Assembly of the Coimbra Group Network, marking a distinguished 40th anniversary of the network.
This year's Assembly will focus on the Poitiers Declaration, an important initiative introduced by the Coimbra Group. The Declaration establishes a collaborative framework for the universities within the Coimbra Group and their respective municipalities, detailing objectives and initiatives for mutual advancement. Initially launched in June 2016 with the support of Alain Claeys, Mayor of Poitiers, and Yves Jean, Rector of the University of Poitiers, and subsequently endorsed by 43 universities, the Declaration reaffirms the crucial role that universities play in urban, social, and cultural development. Conversely, cities provide a vital framework, serving as catalysts for the growth and development of universities.
At the European level, the collaboration between cities and universities is of utmost importance. Local leaders are indispensable partners in shaping and implementing EU policies and bridging the gap between European institutions and local communities.
The University’s commitment to social responsibility extends beyond its traditional role of knowledge dissemination and professional training. As institutions, universities are tasked with a broader mission to foster social, economic, and environmental development.
During the General Assembly, there will be two principal open conferences. The first will address environmental challenges, presenting the outcomes of initiatives led by Durham University and the Coimbra Group. This conference will also feature results from the working groups convening at the 2025 Coimbra Group Climate Symposium, with a special session dedicated to sustainability, organised in collaboration with Durham University.
The second conference titled "Empowering Local and Global Communities: from the Poitiers Declaration to the Future" will focus on the themes of the Poitiers Declaration and the collaboration between universities and cities. This session will engage university rectors and city mayors in discussions aimed at evaluating current partnerships and exploring opportunities for further development. Such dialogues hold significant value not only at the European level but also as exemplary models for global collaboration.