The University of Rzeszów has been officially accepted as a signatory of the Magna Charta Universitatum 2020 (MCU 2020) – one of the most important international documents defining the core values and principles guiding the functioning of contemporary universities. The decision was made by the Governing Council of the Magna Charta Observatory.

The signing ceremony will take place in London between 11 and 13 November 2025, during the anniversary celebrations of the adoption of the Magna Charta Universitatum. The event will bring together rectors from universities across the globe – dressed in traditional academic gowns – representing institutions committed to upholding shared academic values.

Becoming a signatory of the Magna Charta Universitatum is not only a mark of prestige but, above all, a commitment to uphold values such as institutional autonomy, academic freedom, social responsibility, and engagement in societal development through research and education.

What is the Magna Charta Universitatum?

The Magna Charta Universitatum is a document first signed in 1988 in Bologna, on the 900th anniversary of the founding of the University of Bologna – the oldest university in Europe. Since then, it has become a symbol of the academic community which, regardless of political systems
and national borders, bases its activities on shared and universal values.

Today, the Magna Charta is endorsed by hundreds of universities around the world, and the current version – MCU 2020 – has been updated to better address the challenges of the modern world and the academic environment.

The body responsible for implementing the ideals of the Magna Charta is the Magna Charta Observatory (MCO) – an independent institution based in Bologna, supporting the development and safeguarding of academic values, conducting research, educational initiatives and advisory activities in the areas of university autonomy and academic freedom.

The University of Rzeszów’s inclusion among the signatories of the Magna Charta represents an important step towards internationalisation, enhancing prestige, and taking an active part in the global dialogue on the role and responsibility of contemporary universities.