Joint Statement by the Rectors of Catalonia's Public Universities

The rectors of public universities in Catalonia issue a joint statement in response to current events in Catalonia.

20/09/2017

In view of the recent events unfolding in Catalonia, the undersigned, rectors of Catalonia's public universities, condemn the actions limiting freedom of expression which have taken place in the past few days.

We stand firm in our belief that dialogue is the only possible option when it comes to understanding one another in democracy, and are convinced that freedom of expression, alongside mutual respect and abidance by law, are essential and inalienable rights of democracy.

The universal perspective which is so characteristic of a university demands that emphasis be made on the most fundamental values representing coexistence and human rights. Each and every one of the authorities and institutions involved must act with the utmost respect towards these original values of democracy and freedom.

SIGNED:

-Margarita Arboix, Rector of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
-Sergi Bonet, Rector of the Universitat de Girona (UdG)
-Jaume Casals, Rector of the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)
-Joan Elias, Rector of the Universitat de Barcelona (UB)
-Roberto Fernández, Rector of the Universitat de Lleida (UdL)
-Josep Anton Ferré, Rector of the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV)
-Enric Fossas, Rector of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)
-Joan Anton Planell, Rector of the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)

20 September 2017