Universities: Places of Democracy - Chancellors Conference 2023
The 67th annual conference of university chancellors, themed 'Universities - Places of Democracy', is set to take place on September 18 and 19, 2023, at the Technical University of Braunschweig. This event aims to explore the role of democratic processes in universities, with a focus on the role of chancellors.
TU Braunschweig, located in a region rich with research institutions and industrial companies, fosters an interdisciplinary ecosystem. The university is dedicated to being open and international, combining expertise to tackle global challenges. The conference will delve into how universities can maintain their democratic culture and pluralistic exchange despite current pressures. University leaders face demands from various stakeholders, including students, staff, and societal groups, with expressions ranging from protests to cooperation requests. The Association of Chancellors of German Universities, which represents the interests of chancellors, will provide a platform for strategic discussions. Lower Saxony's Science Minister Falko Mohrs plans to strengthen universities with a modern university law, supporting them as places of debate and critical thinking. Chancellors, like Dietmar Smyrek of TU Braunschweig, emphasize the importance of universities in protecting and shaping democracy.
The 67th annual conference of university chancellors in Braunschweig will address the significance of democratic processes in universities. With the support of regional stakeholders and political will, universities can continue to serve as democratic places of freedom, responsibility, and resilience.
