The U7+ Alliance of World Universities has been officially recognized as a G7 Engagement Group, marking an important step in strengthening the role of higher education within the G7. The Alliance now formally represents the higher education sector of the G7 countries, while maintaining its global dimension by bringing together universities from both G7 countries and the Global South.
Founded in 2019 under the French Presidency of the G7, at the initiative of President Emmanuel Macron, the U7+ Alliance was created with a clear objective: to establish a structured and lasting dialogue between university leaders and G7 governments. It is the first coalition of university presidents designed to work collectively on global challenges in direct coordination with public decision-makers.
Since its creation, the Alliance has built a strong track record of aligning its work with G7 priorities and contributing concrete proposals in areas where universities play a unique role, from climate action and sustainable development to democratic resilience, academic freedom, and the responsible development of artificial intelligence. Through its annual Communiqué and its ongoing dialogue with G7 sherpas and relevant ministries, U7+ has gradually established itself as a high-level academic partner to the G7.
This official recognition as a G7 Engagement Group confirms the relevance of this model. Alongside the other G7 engagement groups representing civil society, science, business, youth, or labour, U7+ now brings a collective academic voice to the table. It also reflects the growing expectation that universities should play a more active role in supporting evidence-based policymaking and in preparing future generations to address global challenges.
The next key moment for the Alliance will be the 2026 U7+ Presidential Summit, which will take place in Paris on April 14–15, 2026. Organized ahead of the G7 Summit to be held later this year in Évian, France, the Presidential Summit is officially recognized as a G7-labeled event. It will bring together the presidents of U7+ member universities to discuss the role of universities in a rapidly changing world and to define a common agenda for action.
With the 2026 French Presidency of the G7 approaching, and following its official recognition as a G7 Engagement Group, the U7+ Alliance looks forward to continuing this work in close collaboration with governments and international partners, and to further strengthening the role of universities in global governance.