Networks

The International Association of Universities (IAU), which is based in UNESCO, is an association of higher education institutions from more than 150 countries worldwide. Founded in 1950, the association advocates the principles of freedom and justice, of human dignity and solidarity, which it encourages its members to promote through teaching, research and services.

As of March 2010, there were 614 listed member institutions. The breakdown of membership by region is as follows: Africa (10%), Asia and Pacific (23%), Europe (41%), Latin America and Caribbean (8%), Middle East (12%), and North America: (6%).

The IAU has identified several priority themes; one of which is sustainable development that was adopted since 1993. For over 15 years, the Association has been involved in regional and international projects and initiatives related to this theme. It has also organized several events to promote the universities’ responsibility with regard to sustainability (IAU Prague Conference, "Education for a sustainable future: Shaping the practical role of higher education for sustainable development", September 10-11, 2003). In February 2009, a research project was launched to analyze student perspectives on sustainable lifestyles. This Global Survey on Sustainable Lifestyles is an exploration on how sustainable lifestyles are perceived, envisaged and shaped by young adults from different cultures and backgrounds around the world. In 2002, IAU together with three other international organizations formed the Global Higher Education for Sustainability Partnership (GHESP). This was an effort to mobilize universities and higher education institutions to support sustainable development in response to Chapter 36 of Agenda 21 (Promoting Education, Public Awareness & Training).

http://www.iau-aiu.net/