Strengthening European Values through Academic Cooperation – SUM at the EUPeace Conference in Brussels

The narrative on the importance of academic freedom as the foundation of European values found a strong resonance at the EUPeace dialogue held in Brussels. The event brought together around fifty representatives from universities and institutions across Europe with the aim of collectively reflecting on the role of universities in protecting and promoting democratic principles.

Participants emphasized that academic freedom is not just a right but also a responsibility—especially in the context of facing challenges such as political pressures, restrictions on freedom of expression, and the threat to the autonomy of higher education institutions. A series of lectures and panels addressed important issues such as connecting universities, supporting institutions under pressure, and the necessity of preserving shared European values.

The opening speeches were delivered by Petr Osvald (Pilsen Region), Prof. Dr. Evelyn Korn, Chair of the EUPeace Board, and Prof. Dr. Miroslav Lávička, Rector of the University of Western Bohemia. An inspiring lecture titled “Universities as Promoters of European Democratic Values” was presented by Prof. Hélène Pauliat, while it is worth noting that Monika Steinel, Deputy Secretary-General of the European University Association, also participated in the panel.

Representing the University of Mostar, Prof. Dr. Sanja Bijakšić, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, and Prof. Dr. Davorka Topić Stipić, Head of the SUM Academy, took part in the event, contributing to the discussion on the role of universities in contemporary European society and the need for collective action in safeguarding academic freedom.

The EUPeace dialogue once again confirmed the importance of inter-university cooperation as a foundation for strengthening the resilience of academic communities in the face of contemporary challenges.