Speaker
Description
In a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty, societal polarization, and complex global challenges, universities are increasingly recognized as influential actors of soft power. Through education, research, and international collaboration, they foster trust, intercultural understanding, and long-term relationships that extend beyond national borders and political cycles.
This presentation explores the role of universities in advancing science diplomacy and argues that the European Universities Initiative represents not only an educational transformation but also a new model of international engagement through knowledge. By connecting institutions, researchers, students, and regional stakeholders across Europe, university alliances create transnational ecosystems that strengthen cooperation, resilience, and shared European values.
The FORTHEM Alliance provides an example of how universities can contribute to science diplomacy. Through joint research, innovative learning opportunities, civic engagement, and collaboration with external partners, FORTHEM demonstrates how academic cooperation can generate diplomatic value by building trust, facilitating dialogue, and addressing societal challenges.
| Presenting author | Dr. Barbara Curylo |
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