On May 7, 2026, in Brussels, the rectors of the eight European universities comprising the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA) signed documents establishing the alliance as a legal entity. This marks the next phase in strengthening long-term collaboration among these institutions—all of which are known for their innovative approaches to teaching and for fostering an international academic community. SWPS University has been a member of ERUA since 2022.
From project-based collaboration to permanent institutional alliance
The agreement was signed by the rectors of ERUA’s eight member universities, under the leadership of Professor John McCourt, Rector of the University of Macerata (Italy) and Chair of the ERUA Board of Rectors, together with Arnaud Laimé, Rector of Université Paris 8 (France) and lead coordinator of the alliance.
With this step, ERUA moves beyond temporary cooperation structures and establishes a durable legal framework for long-term joint action in higher education, research, and institutional innovation across Europe. The creation of the legal entity strengthens the alliance’s capacity for continuity, shared governance, and coordinated development.
This is a defining moment for ERUA. Today’s signature is not simply a formal act. It marks the point at which a shared ambition becomes a lasting institutional reality. By creating a permanent legal framework, we are strengthening our capacity to act together across borders, to invest in long-term cooperation, and to build a European academic space that is inclusive, democratic, and responsive to society.
Professor John McCourt
Rector of the University of Macerata and Chair of the ERUA Board of Rectors
Notary public reads out the signed ERUA document confirming ERUA's legal entity status
All for one and one for all — Rectors of all ERUA universities celebrate ERUA's newly established legal entity status
Document establishing ERUA's legal entity status
Form the left: Adam Kućmierz, Student of Law at USWPS, Prof. Ewa Gruszczyńska, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Prof. Roman Cieślak, Rector of SWPS University
Maturation of ERUA
The signing of the legal entity status reflects the broader maturation of European university alliances—from networks built through funded projects to stable structures capable of shaping academic cooperation over time. For ERUA, this transition enables stronger coordination of common initiatives, greater efficiency in the management of shared resources, and a more robust institutional platform for students, researchers, and staff.
The transformation of ERUA into an independent legal entity demonstrates that, as European universities, we share common goals and values, and are actively seeking the institutional frameworks necessary to realize them. Within ERUA, we have long exchanged expertise and collaborated on joint initiatives and projects. Now, we are integrating even more deeply to enhance our operational efficiency in service of the alliance’s strategic objectives, while more boldly committing to innovative education and interdisciplinary research. I believe this new phase of development will amplify the potential of our institutions and communities, creating transformative opportunities for our students. Furthermore, we will exert an even greater influence on the future of a modern Europe and drive positive change within our local environments.
Cieślak, Roman
Rector of SWPS University
Specialization
psychologist
First and last name
Roman Cieślak
Academic degree or title
Professor
Email
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Role in the university
Rector of SWPS University
Role in the Research Center
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Role in the Institute
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Role in the Department
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Professor Roman Cieślakpsychologist, researches traumatic stress and professional burnout
Prof. Roman Cieślak, Rector of SWPS University, signs the document confirming ERUA's legal entity status
Socially engaged and reform-oriented SHAPE
Rooted in the social sciences, humanities, and the arts (SHAPE), ERUA brings together universities committed to reform-oriented, socially engaged, and internationally connected higher education. The new legal entity provides a permanent institutional foundation for this mission and reinforces the alliance’s contribution to key European priorities, including the future of universities, democratic resilience, and meaningful cross-border cooperation. In a joint statement, the Rectors of all eight ERUA member universities said:
Today, we sign a shared commitment to the future of European higher education. As eight universities rooted in the social sciences, humanities, and the arts, we have chosen to move beyond temporary cooperation and to build a lasting framework for collaboration. ERUA’s new legal entity gives permanent institutional form to the work we have developed together and strengthens our capacity to act jointly over time. It reflects our common determination to support open, democratic, and enduring cooperation across European higher education.
ERUA Member Universities
Funding
Learn more about ERUA