Magna Charta Observatory
The Magna Charta Universitatum is a document signed by universities, in which they commit to fundamental values of academic freedom, institutional autonomy and social responsibility.
The University of St Andrews is a proud signatory of the Magna Charta Universitatum and a member of the signatories’ association, the Magna Charta Observatory.
The Observatory supports over 950 higher educations who believe in the fundamental values of higher education, and strive to put these values into practice in their teaching, research and operations.
By signing the Magna Charta Universitatum, universities demonstrate their commitment to fundamental principles, values and responsibilities by making a clear statement that they:
- Operate autonomously, free from all political influence and economic interests.
- Uphold, promote and protect academic values and freedom responsibly.
- Ensure that teaching and research are inseparable and that students are fully engaged.
- Are responsive, responsible and reliable partners for serving society, businesses and other stakeholders.
- Are proactive participants in addressing global and societal challenges and concerns and preparing students for the future.
- Provide educational services and create public goods through scientific and social activity.
- Engage with students effectively enabling them to become responsible democratic citizens.
The Magna Charta Observatory is a global organisation, which speaks for universities on matters of fundamental values, especially when there are attempts to erode these or restrict their operation.
It is an independent association of universities who have signed the Magna Charta Universitatum.
The Magna Charta Observatory provides a network, events, resources and support to assist universities, as they strive to comply with the principles of the Magna Charta Universitatum in the present and in the future.