Following the results of the British referendum, the European University Foundation urges all actors and stakeholders to take the steps necessary to ensure that the possible departure of the United Kingdom from the EU will not put an end to the exchange of students, scholars and cultural actors.
The referendum results and the peaceful protests that ensued give evidence of a profound divide of the UK society. The fact that younger and more educated generations have overwhelmingly shown to consider European values to be their own should not be forgotten, but rather cherished and nurtured.
European universities have an historical and intellectual responsibility to promote Human Rights and understanding among nations. The rise of nationalism across the continent must give pause to political and academic leaders and focus minds on ensuring all young people are afforded adequate opportunities to fulfil their potential − a challenge where higher education and student mobility must play a central role.