CIVICA welcomes two new members and outlines its vision for 2030.
CIVICA – The European University of Social Sciences welcomes two new member schools to the alliance: As of 23 March, IE University in Madrid, and SGH Warsaw School of Economics will be part of the ten-member university network.
A network of more than 70,000 students
With the enlargement CIVICA will connect over 70,000 students and (post)doctoral researchers and 20,000 academic and administrative staff, who will have opportunities for exchange, civic engagement and extracurricular activities around Europe. In addition to the Hertie School, the now ten-member alliance includes the two new members, plus Bocconi University, Central European University, the European University Institute, the National University of Political Studies and Public Administration, Sciences Po, the Stockholm School of Economics and the London School of Economics and Political Science. The universities first joined together in 2019 to establish an EU pilot programme and enhance strategic partnerships in European higher education and research.
“CIVICA stands for academic freedom and excellent research in the EU," says Hertie School President Cornelia Woll. "We are therefore delighted to welcome IE University and SGH Warsaw School of Economics, which will join us in further anchoring the network’s presence and impact across the EU. The expansion of our network is a strong signal to illustrate the strength and diversity of the European academic landscape, especially in times of geopolitical crises."
CIVICA’s strategic outline: Expand research and support students at risk
Among the aims outlined in CIVICA’s vision for 2030 are an expansion of activities in education, research and service to local and global societies; the development of a diverse and inclusive CIVICA community; and international cooperation with sustainability in mind. In light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the alliance has also proposed actions to support scholars and students at risk due to the war.
“In these times of increased uncertainty, our long-term vision reaffirms our role as an open academic community founded on tolerance, justice and solidarity,” said Mathias Vicherat, President of Sciences Po and Coordinator of CIVICA. “CIVICA strives to be a stabilising force for its members and for Europe at large, firmly supporting innovation, excellence, autonomy and academic freedom. Our members have pledged collective action to help displaced scholars and students, and will contribute sustainable, peaceful solutions to unprecedented societal challenges.”
Read the full press release.
