Statement of the Catalan public universities

The following statement is undersigned by the rectors of the eight Catalan public universities:

The undersigners, rectors of the Catalan public universities, regarding the current situation in Catalonia, condemn the coercive episodes on the freedom of speech which are taking place these days.

We believe dialogue is the only possible way to understand in democracy that freedom of speech and mutual respect and respect for the law are essential pillars, which are undeniable for democracy.

The universal perspective characteristic of the university requires focusing on the most fundamental values, which are at the basis of coexistence and peopleʼs rights. All authorities and institutions must act with a scrupulous respect for these original values of democracy and freedom.

Margarita Arboix, Rector of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)

Sergi Bonet, Rector of the University of Girona (UdG)

Jaume Casals, Rector of Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)

Joan Elias, Rector of the University of Barcelona (UB)

Roberto Fernández, Rector of the University of Lleida (UdL)

Josep Anton Ferré, Rector of the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV)

Enric Fossas, Rector of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)

Joan Anton Planell, Rector of the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)