With the signing, which took place in a festive setting at King’s College London in mid-November 2025, FH JOANNEUM commits itself to promoting academic autonomy, social responsibility and university values.
The document, which was originally signed on 18 September 1988, the 900th anniversary of the University of Bologna, by 388 rectors from universities across Europe and beyond, describes the self-image of universities in Europe and around the world. This is based on the fundamental principles of institutional autonomy, the connection between teaching and research, social responsibility and the core values of higher education. In 2020, the manifesto was renewed to emphasise the role of universities in global change. They should act as places of tolerance, inclusion and respect that actively combat discrimination.
More than 1,000 universities worldwide have already signed the Magna Charta Universitatum.
