On Friday 21 March 2025, UCLouvain and KU Leuven jointly awarded an honorary doctorate to the United Nations for its commitment to peace, human rights, and sustainable development. Secretary-General António Guterres accepted the honorary doctorate on behalf of the organisation. With this distinction, the sister universities acknowledge the UN’s pivotal role in protecting the most vulnerable members of society and its ongoing efforts to reform and innovate, despite grave geopolitical tensions.

Founded in 1945, the United Nations is an international intergovernmental organization currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is guided by the goals and principles enshrined in its founding charter: peace and security, sustainable development, the rule of law, and human rights. The UN upholds fundamental values such as human dignity, respect, tolerance, and solidarity. These principles align closely with the academic and societal mission of UCLouvain and KU Leuven, which are equally committed to advancing knowledge, fostering dialogue, and promoting international cooperation as cornerstones of a better world. 

During an academic ceremony in Leuven, António Guterres, the ninth Secretary-General of the United Nations, accepted the honorary doctorate on behalf of the organisation.

This exceptional honorary doctorate was jointly sponsored by UCLouvain Rector Françoise Smets and KU Leuven Rector Luc Sels and the award ceremony was part of the 600th anniversary celebrations of both universities.

Read the speeches and watch the replay of the ceremony.