10 universities consider “A Better Europe” in Lisbon

The seventh EUTOPIA Week was organised by NOVA University in Lisbon from 19 to 13 June, with the theme A Better Europe. The conference of the network of 10 European universities was special because it also marked the 50th anniversary of NOVA University itself. A total of 340 academics and university staff participated.

The EUTOPIA Lisbon 2023 Week debated the role of higher education in the future Europe, the European Green Deal, the digital age, a people-sized economy and a new impetus for European democracy. But it did not stop there. There were moments of work, conviviality and cultural activities, as NOVA’s rector, João Sàágua, pointed out during the opening ceremony.

Several sessions held during the week fleshed out the six priorities of the European Commission.

• The European Green Deal should transform the EU into a modern economy that is resource-efficient and preserves Europe’s natural environment.

• The digital transition must combine investment in research and innovation with data protection and equip citizens with the skills they need.

• The European economy must serve people, secure jobs and fight inequality.

• The EU’s voice on the global stage must be strengthened by defending open and fair trade.

• Fundamental rights and the rule of law must be defended as a bastion of equality, tolerance and social justice.

• A new impetus must be given to European democracy by contributing to the strengthening of democratic processes in Europe.

The seventh EUTOPIA Week concluded with the Women in Diplomacy conference under the theme of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, celebrated on 24 June. There were two panel discussions: “Portuguese diplomats: From the pioneers to the future” and “What is a feminist foreign policy anyway?”

Find more information on EUTOPIA VUB-website.