General Assembly of the European Federation of Catholic Universities at the Catholic University of Croatia

The Catholic University of Croatia will host the General Assembly of the European Federation of Catholic Universities from 20 to 22 May 2026, under the theme “The Mission of Catholic Universities in Challenging Times.” The event will bring together 67 rectors, vice-rectors, deans, and experts from sixteen European countries to discuss the role of Catholic universities in a society marked by social, cultural, and technological change.

During the three-day programme, participants will address a range of key topics related to the future of higher education—from preserving institutional identity and ensuring sustainability in the context of declining student numbers, to the challenges of digital transformation, the development of European university alliances, and strengthening international cooperation. Special attention will be given to how Catholic universities can remain faithful to their mission while responding effectively to contemporary societal needs.

The programme includes keynote lectures, international panels, and workshops featuring representatives from universities across Italy, Portugal, France, Ukraine, Spain, Hungary, Lebanon, Germany, Poland, Ireland, Belgium, Austria, Netherlands, Georgia, Slovakia and Croatia. Workshop discussions will focus on Catholic identity in an age of secularism, the development of climate-resilient campuses, and building resilience through student support in times of conflict and anxiety.

Among the distinguished speakers are José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, who will open the Assembly; Elena Beccalli, President of FUCE and Rector of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan; and Josep M. Garrell, President of the European University Association, along with numerous European university leaders.

In addition to the academic programme, participants will have the opportunity to explore the cultural and spiritual heritage of Zagreb through organised city tours, a Mass at St. Mark's Church Zagreb, and an excursion to Krašić, the birthplace of Cardinal Stepinac.

The Assembly will thus serve not only as a forum for academic exchange but also as a space for dialogue, networking, and strengthening cooperation among European Catholic universities in a time of significant societal challenges.