The EU GREEN European University Alliance continues to represent one of the most ambitious commitments to international university cooperation in Europe. At a time when geopolitical instability highlights the importance of universities as instruments of peace, democracy, human rights, and European values, the alliance reaffirms its mission and vision.
The city of Angers (France) recently hosted the EU GREEN Annual Meeting, where representatives from the nine partner universities—including rectors, vice-rectors, academic staff, and members of the Student Council—joined forces with regional and municipal stakeholders to strengthen the role of universities in shaping better European cities through sustainability, innovation, and culture.
This meeting marked a key milestone in the renewal process of the EU GREEN Alliance, which will compete in the next European Commission call for funding. Set to open in the coming months and closing in February 2026, this new phase will see 28 alliances vying for just 20 funding spots, making this a decisive moment for EU GREEN’s future.
According to Pedro Fernández, President of the Alliance and Rector of the University of Extremadura, “We have reached a level of maturity that is essential for the decades ahead.” Under the leadership of the University of Extremadura, EU GREEN continues to position itself as a cohesive, forward-thinking, and globally engaged network.
The alliance used this opportunity to outline its strategic roadmap for the next phase, reinforcing its commitment to driving social and cultural transformation across Europe—far beyond the academic and research missions of its institutions.
As part of the programme, Anila Troshani, Policy Officer at the European Commission, also participated in the Annual Meeting. Her presence offered valuable insight into the Commission’s evolving vision for European Universities and helped guide EU GREEN’s efforts to develop an alliance with real and lasting impact on society and sustainability. Her intervention underlined the strategic role of alliances in shaping the future of European education and policy.
Students, Cities, and Cultural Collaboration
The EU GREEN Student Council played a particularly active role during the meeting, contributing a youthful and participatory voice to strategic discussions. Their involvement has been instrumental in mobilising thousands of students across the alliance and ensuring their interests are reflected in long-term planning.
One of the standout moments of the meeting was the formal endorsement by the Mayor of Angers and the rectors of the nine universities in support of Cáceres’ bid to become European Capital of Culture 2031. This gesture symbolises the growing connection between higher education institutions, local governments, and European citizens.
“Endorsing Cáceres as European Capital of Culture 2031 is a powerful testimony to the cultural dimension of sustainability,” said one delegate. “Just as we need ecological balance, we also need cultural vibrancy, social cohesion, and a deep sense of belonging to our shared European home.”
With this in mind, EU GREEN renews its commitment to a more sustainable, innovative, and united Europe, where universities, regions, and communities work hand in hand to build a common future.
As Gemma Delicado, EU GREEN’s General Coordinator, concluded: “Now more than ever, it’s crucial that more people join this mature university community capable of making a real impact on our regions and in the lives of thousands of students and citizens.”
