Empowering European Futures: EUniWell at the “Choose Europe” Meeting in Paris
A Rallying Call for the Future of Science in Europe
At a time when democratic values face mounting pressure, the launch of the initiative “Choose Europe for Science” in Paris sent a clear and urgent message: science is not only the driver of progress and innovation, but also a pillar of democracy, freedom, and collective well-being. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron passionately advocated for science as the cornerstone of democracy and emphasised the essential role of open, independent research in shaping Europe’s future.
Von der Leyen shared the powerful story of Marie Skłodowska-Curie whose journey from secret education under oppression to groundbreaking scientific achievements in Paris is a striking symbol of perseverance, curiosity, and the transformative power of knowledge. “Europe must remain the home of academic and scientific freedom. [...] The pursuit of knowledge and the yearning to understand how things work are values that bring us together as people. [...] To every researcher, at home or abroad, to every young girl and boy who dreams of a life in science, as Maria Skłodowska-Curie once did, our message is clear: Choose Science. Choose Europe,” von der Leyen stressed. President Macron echoed these words and made a strong plea for the freedom of science, reminding all present of the essential role universities play in securing the freedom of science and securing our democracies through research and education. He also explicitly addressed the next generation of students and researchers for whom we have to secure this freedom.
Collaboration for Science and Well-Being in Challenging Times
Within this context, EUniWell’s presence, represented by Chief Development Officer Professor Beatrix Busse, underlined the significance of European University alliances that are deeply rooted in cooperation and social responsibility.
“In times of uncertainty, we must stand united for science, academic freedom, and European values. Especially in times of geopolitical uncertainty and rising threats to democratic values, the work of alliances like EUniWell becomes more vital than ever. The ‘Choose Europe’ initiative reinforces what EUniWell is committed to: empowering research, education and innovation for the well-being of people, societies and our planet.”
— Prof. Dr. Beatrix Busse, Chief Development Officer, EUniWell
As an important voice in the European Higher Education area, Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness, Roxana Mînzatu, stressed the need for future-proof competencies and the role of European Universities to choose Europe for science and co-create our futures. At the High-Level Conference on the Future of Science in Europe, she chaired the opening panel on academic freedom and the contribution of science to global public goods – reaffirming that free inquiry and knowledge-sharing are vital to democracy and societal progress. On a similar note, European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, Ekaterina Zaharieva, highlighted this vision in dialogue with EU research ministers, focusing on the need to support researchers and protect scientific freedom across Europe. She described the #ChooseEurope initiative as a landmark demonstration of Europe’s shared dedication to the research and innovation community.
United in Curiosity, Progress, and Shared Purpose
As part of the FOREU4ALL network, EUniWell embodies the idea that universities are not isolated institutions but key actors in promoting well-being across Europe. The “Choose Europe” initiative celebrates science as a public good and an engine for the future – one that requires openness, investment, and trust. It is a reminder that universities are communities of learners, researchers, and citizens who carry forward the European ideals of collaboration, excellence, and freedom.
EUniWell links research and teaching with real-world impact. Its work demonstrates that scientific collaboration can and should be a force for societal resilience. In Paris, the message was clear: Science must remain open, bold, and inclusive and collaborations across borders is essential.
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