Professor Karen O’Brien participated in her first Coimbra Group Rectors’ Advisory Group meeting in Brussels last month.
The Coimbra Group (CG) is the oldest European universities association, comprising 42 long-standing, comprehensive universities of high, international standard from 22 European countries.
The Rectors’ Advisory Group is a select group of seven university leaders from within the wider CG. It provides guidance on strategic matters for CG’s Executive Board, reviews the impact of external developments on the sector, and advises on the achievement of the network’s strategic aims.
Professor O’Brien’s appointment to CG’s Rectors’ Advisory Group highlights Durham’s strong international reputation and commitment to shaping the future of the global higher education sector. Her participation ensures that the University has a strong voice in influential European discussions, amplifies the impact of our research on the global stage, and enhances our ability to advocate for the interests of our staff and students.
The CG has been marking its 40th anniversary throughout 2025, and Durham has been present from the outset, hosting the inaugural two-day Climate Symposium for Rectors, and landmark launch of the Durham Declaration on Climate Change and Sustainability in March.
As its 40th anniversary draws to a close, and in parallel with the Rectors’ Advisory Group meeting in November, the CG’s final celebratory event centred on ‘Reviewing campus democracy – bridging divides and advancing solutions’. The seminar explored how universities can foster dialogue, navigate disagreement, and reinforce democratic principles on campus.
Professor O’Brien led a conversation and breakout session on ‘Climate change scepticism and anti-scientific sentiment: what role for universities?’, with Professor Wilco Hazeleger, Rector Magnificus of Utrecht University.
Attending with Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global) Professor Claire O’Malley, and Coimbra Group Executive Board member Professor Daniel Donoghue from our Department of Geography, Professor O’Brien invited speakers to consider the complex dynamics that sustain and foster scepticism towards climate science. She encouraged participants to reflect on the policies and practices universities can implement to respond to this challenge and foster sustainable behaviours.
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