Foreword

In 2025, we found ourselves at an important turning point as we moved from Strategy 2024 to a new strategic plan that will take us through to 2030. Building on the solid foundations laid in recent years, 2025 was a year of transition: a period of reflection, reassessment and focus.

The social and financial circumstances in which universities operate highlighted the need to make tough choices. For Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR), this represented a reaffirmation of our identity and strength. For us as the Executive Board, ‘Why choose EUR?’ was the key question.

Our broad, solid foundation is in economics, business administration, social sciences and health. Building on this broad foundation, we understand how people, organisations and systems work, and how social and technological developments influence one another. This has been our strength for decades and is of great value, particularly at this time of major transition.

Innovation requires not only technology, but also an understanding of behaviour, governance, implementation and economic impacts. This combination of fields of knowledge makes EUR a natural partner for government, the business community and society. In Strategy 2030, we have explicitly linked this strength to our mission as an Engaged University: globally connected, firmly rooted in our region and driven to make a positive societal impact. The five impact domains identified in 2025 – ranging from resilient societies and broad prosperity to health and the responsible use of technology – are now reflected in our education, research and collaboration. They will serve as our compass for the years ahead.

Collaboration is key to implementing our strategic plan. In 2025, existing partnerships were strengthened. The Convergence between EUR, Erasmus MC and TU Delft has developed into a powerful ecosystem where technological, medical, economic and social disciplines come together. With the LDE partnership (Leiden, Delft and EUR) and our European University Alliance, UNIC, we can see how this broad combination of fields of knowledge sets us apart on the international stage. At the same time, we have strengthened our roots in Rotterdam and South Holland. This is where the major issues of our time converge: the energy transition, social resilience, economic renewal and health. The launch of Campus Rotterdam is a case in point.

Meanwhile, the social context has radically changed. Universities have long been regarded as the cornerstones of knowledge and progress, but their legitimacy is now being called into question. More and more often, education and research are being asked to demonstrate their value to society, the business community and the political sphere. At the same time, the major challenges of our time highlight the continuing importance of independent knowledge institutions. EUR provides insights at the local, national and international level that are not only innovative, but also practical and responsible. Our combination of economic acumen, social insight and collaboration with the health and technology sectors makes us an essential knowledge partner for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The debate around internationalisation also demands a clear position. As a broad-based, urban university, in 2025 we emphasised just how valuable international knowledge and talent are to the Netherlands’ capacity for innovation, productivity and general prosperity. International students, researchers and partners make a substantial contribution to our economy and to the quality of our teaching and research.

In 2025, we strengthened our commitment to social safety. Through our Active Bystander Training sessions we reached over 800 staff members, who engaged in discussions on appropriate and inappropriate behaviour and bystander responsibility. The range of support services for staff and students has been streamlined, so that everyone can find the right form of help more quickly. These are just some of the ways we are working to create a safe, respectful and inclusive academic community. 

The EUR leadership programme was further developed in 2025. The revamped leadership learning pathway, based on the EUR leadership profile, offers training tailored to specific target groups and dynamic Communities of Practice that contribute to inclusive and future-oriented leadership.

2025 was a year of geopolitical tension, war, polarisation and heated debates about the future of higher education. It is precisely because of this context that we as a university focused on dialogue, connection and a willingness to listen. We remain a place where different strands of society come together, and where there is room for debate, reflection and nuance. In this way, we train critical-thinking students who are prepared for the future.

Looking back, we see a society under pressure, but also a university that is fulfilling its role with conviction and a sense of responsibility. We are incredibly proud of our students and staff, who, in these complex times of funding cuts, geopolitical shifts and social unrest, contribute every day with so much passion and dedication to education, research and our social mandate.

On behalf of the Executive Board, Prof. A.L. (Annelien) Bredenoord,

President of the Executive Board of Erasmus University Rotterdam