Mission & History

Building a stronger global higher education community since 1964.

What is IAUP?

The International Association of University Presidents (IAUP) is a global network of university leaders, bringing together presidents, rectors, and vice-chancellors from accredited institutions worldwide.

With members representing nearly 100 countries, IAUP is uniquely positioned to:

Promote collaboration across borders and cultures
Strengthen leadership in higher education
Share knowledge, best practices, and strategic insights
Influence international dialogue on the future of higher education

IAUP also holds the highest consultative rights with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and maintains formal consultative rights with UNESCO, ensuring that higher education leaders have a voice on the world stage.

Our Mission

The mission of IAUP is to strengthen the international mission and quality of education in higher education institutions worldwide.

We believe in:

Promoting global awareness and competence among students and faculty

Supporting peace, collaboration, and international understanding

Encouraging dialogue and independence in addressing global educational challenges

Providing members with unique opportunities for engagement, influence, and impact on the international academic community

Our History

1965

First triennial conference in Oxford, England, setting the foundation for global dialogue among university leaders.

1970s–1990s

Expansion to include hundreds of presidents and rectors from nearly 100 countries.

2000s

IAUP has engaged with heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, UN leaders, and global policy-makers, reinforcing the role of higher education in addressing global challenges.

Present

Today, IAUP remains a trusted platform for collaboration, dialogue, and leadership development in higher education worldwide.

IAUP Visual Identity

Official Logo. IAUP’s logo centers on an ornamental palmette—a classical symbol (ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome) associated with peace, union, and human harmony through education. The emblem’s blue echoes IAUP’s commitment to the United Nations ideals of cosmopolitan peace. The logo is used across official communications, publications, sponsorships, and public business.

Official Seal. Adopted soon after IAUP’s founding, the seal combines heraldic elements (scroll, shield, crossed pens) with a polar-view globe motif (akin to the UN emblem). The UN-inspired blue reaffirms IAUP’s alignment with UN ideals. The seal appears at official meetings—particularly the Triennial General Assembly—and on formal documents such as awards and recognitions.

Certificates

IAUP holds Full Membership with the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CoNGO) in consultative relationship with the United Nations. The certificate is publicly available for reference.

Governance Documents

For organizational transparency, IAUP publishes its Articles of Association and Bylaws.

Be Part of a Global Network of Leaders

Join IAUP to connect with peers worldwide, share expertise, and shape the future of higher education.