“Inspiring Catholic Universities in Challenging Times”

The FUCE General Assembly 2026 will take place in Zagreb (Croatia), hosted by the Catholic University of Croatia, bringing together rectors and leaders of Catholic universities from across Europe.
Scheduled for 20–22 May 2026, the meeting will serve as a key moment for strategic reflection within the FUCE network.

Under the theme “Inspiring Catholic Universities in Challenging Times”, the Assembly will address the major transformations currently affecting higher education. Discussions will focus on how Catholic institutions can respond to evolving academic, societal, and geopolitical contexts while remaining faithful to their mission and identity.

The programme will include high-level keynote lectures, thematic panels, and exchanges of best practices among member institutions. Key topics are expected to include the sustainability of university models, demographic challenges, digital transformation, and the role of Catholic universities within European alliances and global academic networks.

Particular attention will be given to questions of identity, governance, and impact, as universities seek to strengthen their visibility and relevance in increasingly competitive environments. The Assembly will also provide a platform for dialogue on the contribution of Catholic higher education to the common good, social cohesion, and the promotion of human dignity.

The presence of leading figures from the academic and ecclesial world, including Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, will contribute to the intellectual and institutional depth of the discussions. Beyond the formal sessions, the event will foster networking and collaboration among participants.

Finally, the Assembly will take place in a symbolic context, as the Catholic University of Croatia celebrates its 20th anniversary, offering an opportunity to highlight its development and role within the European academic landscape.