Vice-Rector Angelika Epple: ‘a logical step’

At the end of August, Angelika Epple, Vice-Rector for International Affairs and Diversity, signed the Magna Charta Universitatum on behalf of Bielefeld University during a festive ceremony in the Hungarian city of Pécs. The Magna Charta is a manifesto. By signing it, an institution agrees to abide by fundamental principles such as academic freedom and institutional autonomy. This year, eleven universities have signed; up to now, more than 800 universities have signed worldwide.

‘The goal of this document is to strengthen the traditional values of universities and promote strong ties between those in Europe. In today’s world, this is more important than ever,’ stresses Angelika Epple. ‘Defending academic freedom and freedom of expression belong to the self-concept of Bielefeld University. The University views itself as an open forum for academic reflection – something that is particularly necessary to enable a democratic society to also counter increasing right-wing populism. This cannot be stressed and underlined often enough. Hence, signing the Magna Charta is a logical step for us as an international university.’

In 1988, the Magna Charta Universitatum was the starting point for the Bologna Process. At that time, it was signed by 430 university rectors during the festivities to celebrate the 900th anniversary of the founding of the University of Bologna.  

Further information:
www.magna-charta.org