EU–Canada cooperation at the centre of discussions at UNICA Days 2026
UNICA - Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe
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UNICA Days 2026, devoted to discussion of the future directions of academic cooperation between the European Union and Canada, took place in Brussels between 25 and 27 February at the University Foundation building and at the European Parliament. The event, entitled “Shared Values, Shared Futures: A Roadmap for EU–Canada Academic Cooperation”, brought together leading representatives of universities from both regions.
Among the speakers was Ksenija Vidmar Horvat, Vice-Rector for Study and Student Affairs of the University of Ljubljana, who as a member of the UNICA Steering Committee highlighted key points on the role of academic values in today’s global environment. The discussion was chaired by Giorgio Marinoni of the International Association of Universities (IAU), and also featured representatives of Concordia University, the University of Alberta, the UNICA network and the Mila – Quebec AI Institute.
In her address Prof. Vidmar Horvat emphasised the importance of international cooperation between universities at a time of rapid social and geopolitical change. She stressed that “the academic values of research integrity, freedom, autonomy and responsibility are closely intertwined with the values of democratic citizenship”, adding that through their work universities make an important contribution to a future “based on respect for human rights, the rule of law, open dialogue, critical thinking, and the responsible and solidarity-oriented engagement of individuals and communities.”
Her participation strengthened the voice of the University of Ljubljana in discussions on strengthening a global academic space founded on trust, cooperation and shared values.
The aim of the UNICA network, which brings together universities in European capitals, is to broaden and strengthen international cooperation, engage academic leadership and facilitate networking between academic communities through mutual understanding and exchange among its members within the European higher education and research area.