triennial_reports

INTErNATIONAl fEDErATION Of CAThOlIC UNIVErSITIES
25th
GENErAl ASSEMBlY
ADMINISTrATIVE rEPOrTS
2012 - 2015
iFCU GENEral sECrEtariat
CENtEr For CoordiNatioN oF rEsEarCH

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Message from the President
The General Assembly is a key moment for the International Federation of Catholic Universities. This
triennial event is a forum for Rectors, Presidents, and University representatives to share the hopes
and concerns they have about their joint mission of service to the Church at the heart of societies.
It is also the occasion to collectively think and identify the challenges and opportunities that we
face in a constantly changing world, as evidenced by the young students who took part in the IFCU
Youth Cultures Worldwide Study. Finally, this gathering is the opportunity to keep our wonderful IFCU
tradition alive- firmly entrenched in the present yet open to the future.
We live in exciting times. The election of Pope Francis (2013), IFCU’s 90th anniversary, the 50-year
anniversary of the approval of Gravissimum Educationis and the close of the Second Vatican Council,
and the 25th anniversary of the Apostolic Constitution Ex Corde Ecclesiae (2015) are just some of the
highlights. In this commemorative context, we would like to take advantage of this “Ecclesial Spring”
to renew our hope, and look to our past and dare the aggionarmento of our Federation as it gets
ready to celebrate its first hundred years. All this while we aim to heed the signs of the times and our
primary purpose, Sciat Vt Serviat.
The Administrative Reports summarize IFCU’s main activities from 2012 - 2015. As you can see, they
show that our large network of universities is very dynamic. The Strategic Plan clearly lays out the
priorities and objectives we hope to achieve by carrying out actions that have been assigned leaders
and deadlines so we can guarantee regular and objective follow up of these goals.
I suggest you take in these Reports as you would a delicious, copious meal. Do not just select one
of the items on the menu. Rather, savor it all. Join us at the proverbial dinner table and taste each
of the dishes that have been carefully concocted with ingredients from all over the world. As we
come to the end of this three-year cycle, it is good to take stock of what has been accomplished and
give thanks to God, our partners, and everyone who has invested in the many services, meetings,
and projects that are offered by the General Secretariat, the Center for Coordination of Research,
Regional Associations, and Sectorial Groups. Enjoy!
Pedro Rubens, s.j.
IFCU President

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Message from the Secretary General
We are pleased to submit the triennial Administrative Reports to the General Assembly and sincerely
hope that our members and associates enjoy them. They go over the main activities that have taken
place under the aegis of our Federation. First, you will find a general overview of the main research
projects carried out with the General Secretariat, followed by a description of the main research and
training projects supported by the Center for Coordination of Research. A financial report for each
area is included at the end. Readers will be able to judge for themselves the teamwork that went
into each of the bodies of the Federation. The projects are varied and diverse, and demonstrate the
Federation’s evolution and capacity for change. In that way, the documents you are about to read
are both a memory of the last three years in the life of the Federation and a perspective towards the
future that we are called upon to build together.
The main activities of the General Secretariat to which we would like to draw your attention are: the
Executive Board and Board of Administration meetings; the Strategic Plan (which is proposed by the
President) and its deployment; Regional and Sectorial activities; new members and disaffiliations,
and international relations.
As for the Center for Coordination of Research, our report is essentially made up of the many research
and training projects. We have also included information about researchers and their universities,
working methods, training and orientation meetings, international events, and publications that
make up the activities of the CCR on in its 40th year (1975-2015).
The most recent notable activities of our Information and Communication department include the
service of news from the Catholic universities, the priorities of the international agenda for higher
education, and the Federation’s Internet portal.
Finally, we would like to spotlight three recent events at the Federation. They are: the nomination
of a new Deputy Secretary General, Father Barnabe D’Souza, Indian and member of the Salesian
community; the publication of Youth Cultures in Catholic Universities – A Worldwide Study; and
the first ever book on the history of the Federation: IFCU, A Prophetic Organization, which will be
presented during the General Assembly.
Enjoy your reading.
Prof. Msgr. Guy-Réal Thivierge,
IFCU Secretary General

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CONTENTS
General Secretariat
1. IFCU Board of Administration 2012-2015
2. Meetings of the Executive Board and of the Board of Administration
3. Strategic Plan 2013-2016
4. Implementation of the Strategic Plan 2013-2016
5. Regional Activities
6. Sectorial Activities
7. Affiliations
8. Disaffiliations
9. International Relations
10. Communication Department
11. Ex Corde Ecclesiæ Medal and Sciat Vt Serviat Award
12. General Assembly 2015
13. The General Secretariat and CCR Team
Center for Coordination of Research
1. Presentation of the Center
2. Highlighted Projects
3. Major Issues at the Heart of our Concerns
4. Research Focusing on Social Transformation
5. Work Dynamics
6. Information and Communication
7. Publications

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84th
Meeting of the Board of Administration - Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico

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1. IFCU Board of Administration 2012-2015
EXECUTIVE
PRESIDENT
Fr. Pedro Rubens FERREIRA OLIVEIRA, s.j.,
Universidade Católica de Pernambuco, Brazil
SECRETARY GENERAL
Prof. Msgr. Guy-Réal THIVIERGE
VICE-PRESIDENTS
AFRICA
Prof. Fr. Jean-Bosco MATAND,
Université Catholique du Congo, R.D.C.
ASIA PACIFIC
Prof. Michael CALMANO, s.v.d,
Nanzan University, Japan
EUROPE
Prof. Thérèse LEBRUN,
Université Catholique de Lille, France
BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION
NORTH AMERICA
Dr. Chantal BEAUVAIS
St Paul University, Canada
Br. Ronald GALLAGHER, f.s.c.
Saint Mary’s College of California, USA
Prof. Jorge Iván VELEZ AROCHO,
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico
LATIN AMERICA
Dr. Manuel CORRALES PASCUAL, s.j.,
Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Ecuador
Dr. Clemente JULIATTO, f.m.s.,
Pontificia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Brazil
Dr. Pedro Pablo ROSSO,
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile

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ASIA PACIFIC
Fr. Thomas CHATHAMPARAMPIL, c.m.i.,
Christ University, India
Fr. José Ramon T. VILLARIN, s.j.
Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines
EUROPE
Prof. Marceliano ARRANZ RODRIGO, o.s.a.,
Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Spain
H.E. Msgr. Borys GUDZIAK,
Ukrainian Catholic University, Ukraine
NEAR EAST
Prof. Antoine HOKAYEM,
Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth, Lebanon
SECTORIAL GROUPS
Prof. Juan Carlos TORRE PUENTE,
ACISE President,
Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Spain
Prof. João VILA-CHÃ, s.j.
COMIUCAP President,
Pontificia Università Gregoriana, Italy
RESEARCH
Prof. María Eugenia Guerrero Useda,
Universidad Católica de Colombia, Colombia

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2. Meetings of the Executive BOARD and of the Board of
Administration
Meetings of the Executive
October 19-20, 2012
25th
Meeting of the Executive Board
IFCU office, Institut Catholique de Paris, France
March 11, 2013
26th
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico, Ponce, Puerto Rico
October 19-20, 2013
27th
IFCU office, Institut Catholique de Paris, France
March 10, 2014
28th
Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Madrid, Spain
October 16-17, 2014
29th
Casa Maria Immacolata, Rome, Italy
March 4, 2015
30th
Meetings of the Board of Administration
March 11-14, 2013
84th
Meeting of the Board of Administration
March 10-13, 2014
85th
March 4-7, 2015
86th
July 13, 2015
87th
Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia

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3. Strategic plan 2013-2016

Mission
IFCU’s mission is to contribute, in the dual light of reason and faith and through the ferment
of the Gospel, to the development and consolidation of Catholic higher education, with a
view to participating critically and effectively in building a more just and humane world. Its
aims are:
• To support higher education institutions, acting on behalf of the Catholic Church and at
the service of society, to build their identity according to Christian tradition;
• to encourage Catholic universities to respond effectively to the challenges of
globalization, in accordance with the established criteria on quality, tradition and autonomy;
• to promote the integration of higher education institutions through setting-up
networks among the member institutions, based on knowledge and practices (joint projects
and operational partnerships);
• to promote solidarity among member institutions, especially to strengthen those that
are experiencing difficulties of any nature, ranging from financial issues to political and social
problems;
• to represent Catholic Universities at regional and international organizations, thereby
ensuring participation and collaboration within a wide range of different entities.
Vision
In light of the 90th
anniversary of the IFCU in 2014, and looking ahead to our first centenary (in
2024), it is important to give the Federation a new impetus and undertake a reinterpretation
of its mission mindful of the new social, environmental, political, educational and solidarity
challenges in our world.
This anniversary falls within a very specific context, characterized, among other things, by
the advent of a new communication paradigm, post-modern rationality, the phenomenon of
globalization and the impact of biotechnologies. The network of Catholic universities bears
testimony in this respect of being a highly dynamic and credible organization that has a
marked influence on higher education and Society. In many different ways, these institutions,
belonging to one big family, resemble one another as regards the academic quality and
human excellence they aspire to.
It now falls to the IFCU to renew itself in the light of these points, by adapting its structure
and operations, as well as intensifying its activities in order to become more dynamic and
optimizing the services it delivers to its member institutions.
Challenges
In order to accomplish the above, 3 key areas of reflection and action have been identified:
(1) Reflection on the identity and mission of the Catholic universities taking inspiration from the
Apostolic Constitution Ex Corde Ecclesiæ;
(2) Recognition and optimization of the impact of the Universities, outside the walls of such
institutions;
(3) Synergy and joint solidarity among member institutions through the implementation of joint
projects that promote development thereof.

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In order to work on and make progress in these three areas, a Strategic Plan has been drawn up and
priorities and strategic objectives have been defined, which will shape the series of actions listed
below.
PRIORITY 1. Organizational Structure and Operating Procedures of IFCU
1.1. More efficient operating procedures through a better organization of
the Office
Objective: To obtain a more efficient participation of the staff of the General Secretariat and
the Centre for Coordination of Research (CCR), in particular through better time management
and the definition of priorities.
Actions
• Redefinition of the responsibilities of each member of the team: drafting and approving a
new document containing the functional description of each post (job description) composing the
structure of IFCU and indicating the relationships of hierarchical and functional dependency which
exist between them;
• Drafting by each member of the team of a Work Plan taking into account the priorities defined
in the Strategic Plan;
• Development of a management tool making it possible to guide the individual work of each
team member and to enable the Secretary General and the President to carry out objective support
of the tasks;
• Recruitment of a Deputy Secretary General who will assist the Secretary General in his
functions.
1.2. Redefinition of the project system of the Centre for Coordination of
Research
Objective: To provide a system of research projects that clearly defines the different stages of
the development of a project.
Actions
• Evaluation of the current system: analysis of the process and criteria used to define the
participating universities, research and financing methods and project monitoring;
• Definition of procedures that will encourage greater participation and representation of the
participating institutions;
• Developing clear specifications for the project system;
• Informing the Members of the system (new brochure).
1.3. A greater involvement of the Members of the Board of Administration
Objective: To encourage and make effective the participation of the Members of the Board and
others to reflect on the activities and functioning of the Federation.
Actions
Creation of various committees:
• Strategic Orientation Committee, to reflect on the mission, vision and challenges of IFCU, while
including proposals from other Committees as defined by the identity and mission of the Federation;
• Fundraising Committee, with the aim of listing potential support institutions and proposing a
fundraising plan;
• Management and Finance Committee, responsible for the analysis of accounts;

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• Membership Committee to develop a new membership strategy;
• Statutes and By-Laws ad hoc committee which will present proposals for changes promoting
the quality and improvement of services;
• Define and implement the working modalities of these Committees: creation of collaborative
platforms, meetings during the Board Meetings.
1.4. A more active participation of the President and the Presidents of Regional
Associations in the life of the Federation
Objective: To Increase the visibility and the ability to represent the Federation by encouraging the
participation of the President and the Presidents of Regional Associations in the different meetings.
Actions
• To organize a diary of official visits and make provision for the participation of the President and
the Presidents of Regional Associations in the significant events of IFCU, by contacting in particular:
the Congregation for Catholic Education, IEC, the donor agencies, Regional Associations, the Sectorial
Groups.
PRIORITY 2. Cooperation, Involvement and Life of the IFCU World Network
2.1. Redefinition of IFCU’s draft Institutional Communication Policy
Objective: To draft a new communication project, by rethinking, in particular, communication towards
the exterior (other international organizations, donor agencies…) and communications on IFCU’s own
activities (particularly those of the CCR).
Actions
• Evaluation of the internal and external communication processes of IFCU;
• Identification of actions making it possible to promote cooperation among member institutions;
• Definition and implementation of a system of internal and external communication that is
flexible and efficient.
2.2.Identificationofthecurrentresourcesandneedsofthememberuniversities
to better meet their expectations and foster collaboration
Objective: To carry out an inventory that makes it possible to offer a range of services adapted to the
real needs of institutions and foster cooperation.
Actions
• Identification of the Faculties and Departments by discipline;
• Creation of a database of experts from our Member Universities;
• Establishing specific training for the staff of our universities (researchers, but also academic and
administrative staff) according to the needs;
• Identification of the Centers of Excellence and the existing cooperation programs (excluding
research) to create new fronts of cooperation and to promote cooperation between universities;
2.3. Better involvement of the students in IFCU’s activities
Objective: To promote reflection and the evolution of educational methods in the universities and
propose initiatives directly aimed at the students.
Actions
• Draft a document based on the survey of youth cultures which will provide institutions with
ideas for more efficient academic, educational and pastoral work;

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• Mobilize the universities to carry out a questioning and revision of their methods in the
academic field and their approach to students;
• To list and circulate information concerning existing international mobility programs in order to
stimulate the development of our network of catholic universities;
• Promote graduate student participation in the activities of the Sectorial Groups and research
projects.
2.4. Extension of the Inter-Library Digital Network existing throughout the
Federation
Objective: Enlarge opportunities for bibliographic research for member institutions and facilitate
access to information for the smaller and more recent universities, or those with fewer means.
Actions
• Identify the main member universities offering open-access collections and, with their
permission, edit a page containing a list of links to these collections;
• Drafting of a project containing the objectives, methodology, organization and necessary costs
of the creation and administration of the virtual library;
• Creation of IFCU’s Virtual Library Network.
PRIORITY 3. Integration of the International Agenda into IFCU’s Work Plans
3.1. Increase the visibility and participation of IFCU at the major international
organizations
Actions
• Participate in the activities of the Holy See relating to culture and education;
• Participate in a more systematic and inter-active way in UNESCO’s Programs (Paris) by
cooperating in joint Programs and guaranteeing the participation of our members in the projects
supported by this Organization / Ensure IFCU’s participation at the Council of Europe;
• Participate occasionally when relevant to meetings of the United Nations (New York), ECOSOC
(Economic and Social Commission), Commission on Human Rights;
• Participation in the activities of all regional episcopal conferences/ List the institutions and
important events in each region and propose official forms of IFCU’s representation;
3.2. Carry out a systematic follow-up of these activities
• The person designated to attend these meetings will send a report to the General Secretariat
to guarantee information and follow-up by members.
PRIORITY 4. Solidarity and Cooperation of IFCU with vulnerable IFCU universities
Objective: To make the solidarity of IFCU and its Network more active and organized with regard to
its vulnerable members.
Actions
• Ongoing relationship with Regional Associations
• Identify the regions and universities that are vulnerable and their real needs and identify fields
of action;
• Share, encourage and reinforce the initiatives of Regional Associations and Members;
• Study the possibility of creating a system of scholarships to promote the cooperation of

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larger academic institutions with the most vulnerable and thus increase the number of Ph.D.’s in
universities in vulnerable regions;
• Foster the access of these vulnerable members to certain IFCU activities (Rector’s Program,
research projects, specific training in fundraising and research methodology);
• Identify external organizations which are able to collaborate.
4. Implementation of the Strategic Plan 2013-2016
The Strategic Plan is submitted by the President of the Federation to the Board of Administration,
which, after discussion, accepts it at the beginning of its mandate. It inspires and guides the activities
of the Board that will be carried out during this period. It also offers guidelines that will enlighten the
work of the Regional Associations, Sectorial Groups and the Centre for Coordination of Research. It
makes it possible to unite and coordinate all the efforts under way to better serve the expectations
of the member universities.
The entire Triennial Report testifies to the importance and impact of the Strategic Plan these
past three years. Several initiatives are still being implemented as they correspond to long-term
objectives, while most short-term objectives have been achieved as planned. Only the most relevant
elements are mentioned herein.
Priority 1 – Organizational Structure and Operating Procedures of IFCU
As far as the organization of the office is concerned, two major events have to be underlined: the
restructuring of the Center for Coordination of Research and the recruitment of a Deputy Secretary
General, Dr. Fr. Barnabe D’Souza.
The project system of the Center was evaluated and revised, partly thanks to the collaboration of the
research representative of the Board, Prof. Guerrero Useda. This is a good example of the desire and
perseverance to promote a greater implication of the IFCU Board members, also encouraged by the
creation of special committees made up of the Board members themselves.
Priority 2 – Cooperation, Involvement and Life of the IFCU World Network
A significant point to underline here is the launch of the new IFCU website, which has been completely
redesigned so as to propose more relevant contents and format to our audience.
Priority 3 – Integration of the International Agenda into IFCU’s Work Plans
This priority is detailed in item 9 “International Relations”.
Priority 4 – Solidarity and Cooperation of IFCU with vulnerable IFCU universities
IFCU assists its most vulnerable members, but always in accordance with its mission and with its
resources. It is a field in which the Federation has remained active these past years. It promotes
solidarity between its members, for instance at the regional level. Many initiatives and collaborations
could be mentioned.
The concept of vulnerability does not limit itself to financial issues only; many other elements have
to be taken into account, such as academic issues, etc.

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5. Regional Activities
The members of IFCU can also form associations according to their continental distribution.
Cultural and geographical sympathies are the basis of the regional groups which also
aim to carry out more efficiently the missions of the Catholic University in the world.
These Regional Associations are entirely or partly made up of IFCU member institutions and aim at
meeting the specific and more immediate interests of these regions in the spirit of the objectives of
the Federation.
They organize encounters where participants are invited to reflect upon and debate issues that
concern the Catholic University in a specific geographical and cultural context. The most relevant
of these meetings are listed hereafter. In most of these meetings the IFCU is represented by its
President and its Secretary General.
Association of Catholic Universities and Higher Institutes of Africa and Madagascar (ASUNICAM –
ACUHIAM)
President: Prof. Fr. Jean-Bosco Matand, Université Catholique du Congo, D.R.C.
June 30-July 2, 2014, Saint Augustine College of South Africa, South Africa
Catholic Universities and New Global Ethics
Information/Contact: acuhiamsecretariat@hotmail.co.uk
Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU)
President: Prof. Michael Galligan-Stierle
February 2–4, 2013, Washington D.C.
Catholic Higher Education and Globalization:
Finding Our Place in the New Global Commons

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February 1-3, 2014, Washington D.C.
Living the Vision of Gaudium Et Spes
January 31-February 2, 2015, Washington D.C.
Bold Vision, Courageous Voices: Forming a New Generation
Information/Contact: www.accunet.org / accu@accunet.org
Association of East and South East Asian Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASEACCU)
Executive Secretary: Prof. Michael Calmano, s.v.d., Nanzan University, Japan
August 22-25, 2013, Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
New Ardor, New Method, New Expression: the Mission of Catholic Higher Education for New
Evangelization. Celebrating the Year of the Faith.
August 28-30, 2014, Ateneo de Davao University, Les Philippines
The Responsibility of Catholic Higher Education Institutions for Spiritual Formation and Prophecy
August 27-29, 2015, Universitas Katolik Soegijapranata, Indonesia
Catholic Higher Education and Religious Inclusiveness
Information/Contact: http://www.nanzan-u.ac.jp/English/aseaccu - calmano@nanzan-u.ac.jp
European Federation of Catholic Universities (FUCE)
President: Prof. Thierry Magnin, Université Catholique de Lyon, France
May 23-25, 2013, Libera Università degli Studi Maria SS. Assunta, Italy
Which Project for the Europe of Tomorrow: the Role of Catholic Universities
May 15-17, 2014, Université Catholique de Lyon, France
How Does its Treatment of the Great Ethical Questions in Both Teaching and Research Show the
Specific Nature of the Catholic University ?
May 21-23, 2015, St. Patrick’s College, Ireland
Thinking Teaching and Research Ethics in European Catholic Universities
Information/Contact: https://www.unamur.be/fuce - laurence.vieslet@unamur.be

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Organization of Latin American Universities (ODUCAL)
President: Prof. Pedro Pablo Rosso, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
November 12-14, 2012, Universidad Católica Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo, Peru
Building an Higher Catholic Education Space in Latin America and the Caribbean
November 23-25, 2015, Universidad de Monterrey, Mexico
Quality and Solidarity: Building Together the ODUCAL of the XXIst Century
Information/Contact: http://www.oducal.com / contacto@oducal.com
Xavier Board of Higher Education - India
President: Fr. Joseph Puthenpura, c.m.i.
April 27- 30, 2013, St. Philomina’s College, India
Social Inclusion in the light of UGC (University Grants Commission) 12th Plan / Politics and Higher
Education
Information/Contact: http://www.xavierboard.org/web - contact@xavierboard.org

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6. Sectorial Activities
What is more natural among specialists of the same discipline or a same field than to pool a common
experience and sensibility in order to share various experiences beyond different cultural contexts
without erasing these? This is the purpose of the Sectorial Groups of IFCU. They are made up of the
faculties, departments, institutes or schools of affiliated universities that have in common the same
fields of study, teaching and research.
Discussions around a common theme, the organization of specific research colloquia, projects and
activities, exchange of professors, publications, consultancies, whereby the partners consolidate,
develop and share their knowledge and fulfill the academic, ethical and spiritual aims of the
Federation by making these concrete and dynamic within the member institutions.
This is how different groups were constituted around professors, researchers and experts who pooled
their know-how in a friendly framework which they defined according to forms and an organization
that are their own.
Philosophers, theologians, educationists, political scientists, psychologists, medical doctors,
specialists in social sciences, in family studies, etc. have contributed to extend the IFCU family and
promote the international scientific impact of the Catholic academics.
The most relevant of these meetings are listed here below:
90th
IFCU anniversary andt 25th
ACISE anniversary

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Association of Catholic Institutes of Education (ACISE)
President: Prof. Juan Carlos Torre Puente, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Spain
April 1-5, 2013, Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez, Chile
Role and Challenges of the Catholic Universities in the Training of Education Professionals at the
Present time
April 23-24, 2014, Liverpool Hope University, United Kingdom
25th ACISE Colloquium: Being Open to Others
April 8-11, 2015, Libera Università Maria Ss. Assunta, Italy
In collaboration with the Congregation for Catholic Education: Renewing the passion for education
in Catholic Universities
Information/Contact: http://fiuc.org/acise - jctorre@chs.upcomillas.es
International Association of Catholic Medical Schools (AIFMC-IACMS)
President: Prof. Dr. Ignacio Gómez, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Spain
February 16-19, 2015, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Spain
Disability in Health Sciences
Information/Contact: Ignacio.gomez@ucv.es

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Conference of Catholic Institutions of Psychology (IFCUP-FIUCUP)
President: Prof. Maria Adela Bertella, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Argentina
April 10-12, 2013, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Argentina
The Missions of Psychology in a Context of Social Fragmentation and Vulnerability
April 8-10, 2015, Loyola Marymount University, United States
Linking Psychology, Human Experience and Transcendence: A Challenge in a Post-Modern World?
Information/Contact: mariaadelabertella@gmail.com
Conference of Catholic Theological Institutions (COCTI-CICT)
President: Prof. Thierry-Marie Coureau, o.p., Institut Catholique de Paris, France
November 4-7, 2014, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
Impact of Real Contexts on Doing Theology?
Information/Contact: http://www.cict-cocti.org- theologie@icp.fr
World Conference of Catholic University Institutions of Philosophy (COMIUCAP)
President: Prof. João Vila-Chã, s.j., Pontificia Università Gregoriana, Italy
November 13-17, 2013, St. Augustine College, South Africa
Order and Disorder in the Age of Globalization(s): Philosophy and the Development of Cultures
July 20-22, 2015, Australian Catholic University, Australia
Civil Society and Human Formation: Philosophy’s Role in a Renewed Understanding of the Meaning
of Education
Information/Contact: http://www.comiucap.net - j.vila-cha@unigre.it

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IFCU Social Sciences
President: Prof. Fernando Vidal, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Spain
January 16-19, 2013, Christ University, India
A New Social Thought for a New Social Model: Building Alternatives
Information/Contact: fvidal@iuf.upcomillas.es
European Family Institutes Network (REDIF)
President: Dr. Carles Pérez Testor, Universitat Ramón Llull, Spain
November 7, 2013, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Spain
Vulnerable Families, Resilient Families: Innovations Against Social Vulnerability
November 13-14, 2014, Université Catholique de Lyon, France
Time and Families
Information/Contact: http://fiuc.org/redif - carlespt@fvb.es
Political Sciences
President: Prof. Miguel Ayuso, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Spain
February 5-7, 2013, Universidad Católica de Colombia, Colombia
The Law of Human Rights
February 23, 2013, San Domenico Maggiore, Italy
Natural Law and Jurisprudence
April 18, 2013, Real Academia de Jurisprudencia y Legislación, Spain
Constitution and Constitutionalism
April 20, 2013, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, Spain
Technocracy and Democracy
October 9, 2013, Consejo de Estudios Hispánicos Felipe II, Spain
Church and Politics: to Change Paradigm
January 25, 2014, Consejo de Estudios Hispánicos Felipe II, Spain
Modern Freedom of Conscience and Religion: the issue of its Grounds
February 5-7, 2014, Universidad Católica de Colombia, Colombia
Utrumque ius. Law, Canon Law and Natural Law
Information/Contact: mayuso@der.upco.es

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7. Affiliations
July 2012
 Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Spain
 Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile
 Université Notre-Dame du Kasayi, Democratic Republic of Congo (reintegration)
 Holy Angel University, Philippines (reintegration)
October 2012
 Pontificio Ateneo Regina Apostolorum, Italy
 Universidade Católica de Petropolis, Brazil (reintegration)
 Universidade Santa Ursula, Brazil (reintegration)
 Universidad Vasco de Quiroga, Mexico
March 2013
 Saint Augustine University of Tanzania, Tanzania
October 2013
 Heythrop College, United Kingdom
 Loyola University Chicago, United States (reintegration)
 Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mexico
 Universidad Católica de La Plata, Argentina
March 2014
 Newman University, United Kingdom
October 2014
 Don Bosco Technological Institute, Papua New Guinea
 Newman Theological College, Canada
 Salesian College, India
 Universidade Católica do Salvador, Brazil

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March 2015
 Catholic Distance University, United States
 Leeds Trinity University, United Kingdom
 Real Centro Universitario Escorial – Maria Cristina, Spain
 Universitas Studiorum Catholica Croatica, Croatia
Total: 22 affiliations
8. DIsaffiliations
March 2013
 Saint John’s University, Thailand
 University of San Agustin, The Philippines
March 2015
 Fordham University, USA
 Holy Angel University, The Philippines
 Saint Mary’s College, USA
 Seton Hill College, USA
Total : 6 disaffiliations

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9. International Relations
One of IFCU’s missions is to represent Catholic Universities at
regional and international organizations, thereby guaranteeing
participation in many diverse bodies. The Federation actively
participates in activities sponsored by UNESCO and the
Council of Europe and works in close collaboration with the
Congregation for Catholic Education.
UNESCO’s partnership with non-governmental organizations
(NGOs) that represent civil society are a cooperative network at
the service of people for development, equality, international
understanding, and peace in UNESCO’s spheres of competence.
In the context of the working group on water, IFCU actively
participated in organizing an international forum –with the
support of the Ivorian government- in Yamoussoukro (Ivory
Coast) July 30-31 2014. The subject was: “Access to Water for All
in Africa, A Basic Right” The NGOs that were present launched
an official call to the African continent to raise awareness
amongst stakeholders and decision-makers about the efforts
that need to be made to make drinking water accessible to all.
Plus, in the context of the International Day for Migrants, IFCU is part of the working group on
migrants where it can share its experience in this field. This global event will be held at the end of
2015 at UNESCO headquarters and around the world. It will focus on topics from education to the
reality of migrants, to the importance of living together and shared memory.
Concerning the Council of Europe, IFCU has also been represented over the last three years in two
commissions that best correspond to the research carried out by the Center for Coordination of
Research.
IFCU participated in the following three working groups of the Human Rights Commission:
- Human Rights and Religions: This group worked for almost three years on this issue. The goal was
to observe the way religions respect (or do not respect) Human Rights. The final document was
presented to the Committee of Ministers.
- Absolute Poverty and Human Rights: The goal of this group is to help governments and civil society
understand the humiliating situations that the poor face, and to realize that they have a right to be

27
heard. Each year they prepare events for the “International Day for the Eradication of Poverty”. In
2014, IFCU participated with the Group in a high level conference in Torino organized by the Council
of Europe on the occasion of the 53rd anniversary of the European Social Charter.
- Human Rights, Co-Development and Migration. This working group began its work in April 2014.
Its objective is to make sure that industrial projects in African and Latin America come to fruition
by taking into account the interests of residents’ rights and their traditions, and by helping them
increase their standard of living.
IFCU was also represented on the Education and Culture Commission where it paid particularly
close attention to the working group that examined the situation of educators. “Educating in the 21st
Century”. This study was widely distributed amongst teachers across Europe and contributed to the
drafting of a document called “Teacher 21”, which was submitted to the Committee of Ministers at
the end of 2014. Based on the feedback received, the group was able to gather the perspectives of
teachers on their practices, challenges they face and their needs.
IFCU regularly attends the general assemblies and the NGO Conference at the Council of Europe. The
general assemblies are held twice a year, at the end of January and the end of June.
IFCU relations with the Holy See have been particularly close in recent years due to 2015 being the
50th anniversary of Gravissum Educationis and the 25th anniversary of Ex Corde Ecclesiæ. IFCU was
called to play an active role in planning three meetings for the Congregation for Catholic Education.
They were: ACISE Sectoral Group’s colloquium in Rome; a joint forum on education with UNESCO;
and there will be a major worldwide gathering of Catholic institutions of education (primary,
secondary, and post- secondary) form November 18- 21 November 2015 in Rome.
Furthermore, IFCU is working with the Congregation and Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore to
organize two colloquia in the context of Expo 2015 in Milan.
It is also important to point out that the Federation’s General Secretary is a member of AVEPRO
(The Holy See’s Agency for the Evaluation and Promotion of Quality in Ecclesiastical Universities and
Faculties) and an advisor for the Congregation for Catholic Education.

28
10. Communication Department
A new Website gives the Federation and its members more visibility
In December 2014, IFCU launched its new website. It has been redesigned with new functions and
a new look. It consists of two distinct areas dedicated to the General Secretariat and the Center
for Coordination of Research and it has more space devoted to the Federation’s affiliates, Regional
Associations, Sectorial Groups, and partners.
The News section is divided into three languages (Spanish and Portuguese are together).
An Agenda has been added, which posts IFCU activities and communicate calls for papers for some
conventions with a special bulletin.
An ad hoc space has been created for Regions and Sectorial Groups with relevant news and
information.
There is also an employment space that is available to our members and partner institutions. There
is also a publications space and a database that lists the entire available academic offers of our
affiliates that is being finalized.

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Piper electronic magazine (Psychology – 5 volumes - www.fiuc.org/piper) and Educa (Educational
sciences – www.IFCU.org/educa) are also available without charge.
The website is available in IFCU’s three official languages: English, Spanish, and French.
E-Bulletins
Electronic bulletins were implemented in January 2012.
They include a “press review” (which is sent weekly), an “agenda” of Federation, member, or partner
activities (sent bi-monthly), and special information on important events of the Regional Associations
(colloquia, annual meetings), Sectorial Groups, and partners.
The Press Review includes a selection of articles on the activities of Catholic universities, the
challenges facing Catholic higher education, and the life of the Church. So far, more than 130 press
reviews have been published; each including around 40 articles. The press review is divided into 5
sections according to language (English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and French).
Present on Social Networks since 2010
All of the content in the e-bulletins is also available on Facebook and Twitter, to reach a wider
audience that is interested in the world of Catholic education (journalists, individuals, professors,
students, priests, etc.).
Please visit our new website and join us on social networks:
www.fiuc.org
www.facebook.com/fiuc.ifcu
www.twitter.com/IFCUFIUC

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11. Ex Corde Ecclesiæ MEDAL and Sciat Vt Serviat Award
Ex Corde Ecclesiæ Medal
The purpose of the Ex Corde Ecclesiæ Medal is to mark the tangible presence and recognition of the
Federationbyitsmembersfortheirdistinctionandmerit.Itisawardedinthefollowingcircumstances:
for very important anniversaries of the foundation of a member institution, a Regional Association or
Sectorial Group; to the host university of the General Assembly or in the context of any other very
inspiring and innovative activity of the Catholic universities; to the institution that hosts the annual
meetings of the Administrative Board of the Federation or to certain persons who have played a
crucial role in the Federation.
2012
Prof. Anthony Cernera
For his commitment at the service of Catholic universities during his two mandates as IFCU President
Fundação Educacional Inaciana, São Paulo, Brazil, 26/07/2012
2013
84th
Meeting of the IFCU Board of Administration, 13/03/2013
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
125th
Anniversary of its Foundation, 07/06/2013
Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan
100th
Pontificia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
55th

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2014
Her Majesty the Queen Sofía of Spain
For her commitment in promoting culture and education
Madrid, Spain, 12/03/2014
85th
Meeting of the IFCU Board of Administration, 13/03/2013
2015
86th
Meeting of the IFCU Board of Administration
140th
anniversary of its Foundation, 01/11/2013
Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
25th
IFCU General Assembly
25th
anniversary of its Foundation, 16/07/2015
Mr. Jean-Louis Flandrin
Prof. Rosa Aparicio Gómez
Ms. Michèle Jarton
For their remarkable collaboration with the Federation in various fields
Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia, 16/07/2015
Sciat Vt Serviat Award
The Sciat Vt Serviat Award enhances an original activity stressing the mission of IFCU and Catholic
universities in various domains: Catholic identity, international collaboration and special initiatives
for justice, dialogue between cultures and religions and peace. It will be awarded to one institution,
or a group of institutions, whose creative work represents a significant and inspiring contribution to
Catholic university culture.
The Sciat Vt Serviat Award will be conferred to the Université Catholique de Lille on July 16,
2015, on the occasion of the 25th General Assembly, for the Humanicité initiative, i.e. creation of
an harmonious urban ensemble gathering all human activities (habitat, enterprises, businesses,
university, health, medico social, and cultural activities).

32
12. General Assembly 2015
The theme of the 25th General Assembly is Times Change. Values Endure. It is hosted by the
Australian Catholic University of Melbourne, Australia, from July 13 to 17, 2015.
13. Team of the General Secretariat and of the Center for
Coordination of research
The Federation has a permanent secretariat that is responsible for implementing the orientations
and policies defined by the General Assembly and the governing bodies. In addition to the
administrative and management tasks of IFCU, the Secretariat also carries out events, coordination
and information tasks for all its adherents and partner organizations and institutions. The Secretariat
has a permanent staff of various nationalities for its different activities: administrative secretariat,
promotion and coordination of inter-university research, information and communication, and
financial management.
Prof. Msgr. Guy-Réal THIVIERGE
Secretary General
Director of the Center for Coordination of Research (CCR)
sgfiuc@bureau.fiuc.org
Dr. Barnabé D’SOUZA, s.d.b.
Deputy Secretary General
dsouza.barnabe@bureau.fiuc.org
Loïc ROCHE
Head of information and communication
communication@bureau.fiuc.org
Manon MARINIERE
Executive Assistant to the Secretary General
Rectors Program Coordinator
m.mariniere@bureau.fiuc.org

33
Philippe TAN
Administrative Assistant
philippe.tan@bureau.fiuc.org
Montserrat ALOM
CCR Project Manager
montserrat.alom@bureau.fiuc.org
Nicolas VERGIER
CCR Research Assistant
nicolas.vergier@bureau.fiuc.org
The Federation and the Center benefit from the aid and the expert advice of other professionals: Mr.
Philippe Cottet (Cottet accounting firm) is responsible for the accounting (external audit) and Mr.
Jean-Louis Flandrin, a voluntary collaborator, assists the Secretary General in the field of Management
and Financial Analysis. The Mazars consulting firm is in charge of auditing and account certification.
Mrs. Odile Moreau has been collaborating with IFCU for many years and is mainly responsible for
the relations between the Federation and the Council of Europe. A team of professional translators
and fifteen interpreters collaborate on a regular basis in the activities of IFCU and the CCR. Last
but not least, it is important to mention the numerous individuals involved in the complementary
but nevertheless essential activities of the Federation: Association Law 1901 and Ex Corde Ecclesiæ
Foundation.
14. PReSENTATION of the center for coordination of research
The activities of the Centre for the Coordination of Research (CCR) have made it, for some time
now, one of the main services the Federation offers its affiliates. Alert to the interests and concerns
of universities, society and the Church, the Centre’s mission is to promote inter-university and
multidisciplinary research according to the very spirit of international cooperation. To do this, it
offers a meeting point and a space for debate and the production and dissemination of knowledge
allowing member institutions to make their own contribution to the challenges raised by scientific,
human and social development.
Over the last three years, the Centre has promoted many cooperation activities with the institutions
forming part of the Federation’s international network. Clearly innovative initiatives have found
their place alongside more traditional projects. In addition, core themes studied in the past have

34
continued to be developed, while the study of new problems that cannot be ignored because they
have become so important at world level has been promoted.
The Centre’s activities are guided by universal humanistic values and by the principles of sustainable
development. Based on these values and principles, the Centre:
- Works for a fairer, more human world.
- Places the human being at the centre of its initiatives.
- Provides its own reflection on current problems.
- Articulates local, regional and global perspectives.
- Promotes south-south cooperation in a particular way.
- Develops and consolidates international networks.
- Encourages the formation and development of competences.
- Ensures an academic, political and social impact.
The Center today
A dozen international macro-projects
Actions in Africa, the Americas,
the Middle East, Europe and Asia
More than 50 institutions
and cooperating teams
More than 200 researchers involved
Mobilisation of PhD students
and young researchers
Collaboration with international organisations,
political and academic agents and civil society

35
15. HIGHLIGHTED PROJECTS
15.1. FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT YOUTH CULTURES
Youth cultures in Catholic Universities. Challenges for teaching practices
Coinciding with the International Year of Youth,
declared by the United Nations between August
2010 and August 2011, the Centre launched a
project based on a worldwide survey in order to
find out about the cultures of the young people
attending our universities, aware of the fact that
both they and our institutions are undergoing far-
reaching changes at world level.
The project was based on the premise that having
a better knowledge of how young students give a
meaning to the different areas of their lives would
allow us to examine and, as necessary, rethink, the
current teaching approaches at our centres so they
can be appropriately adapted to the public they
receive.
The key concept from which the study was
approached was culture, understood in its broadest
sense; that is, as an element making it possible to
seek and construct a meaning for one’s own life.
As the UN rightly recognises, it is vitally important to promote intergenerational comprehension and
intercultural comprehension in an ever-changing context. And this project proposed to cover both
of these dimensions, highlighting the generational differences and comparing the findings obtained
between the countries of the same region and between the large regions of the world.
The Centre designed this initiative as a real service offered to the participating universities, as it
is a full, worldwide survey, examining culture in depth based on a survey available in a total of 17
languages.
Geography and scope of the project
± 60 universities
± 40 countries
4 continents
17 languages

36
The data obtained provided first-hand information about the situation of young people, while
generating reflection within universities, above all in relation to the pedagogical practices and policies
in place. The same could be useful for researchers at our centres and for international cooperation
purposes in general. They can feed databases on education or on youth people, as well as specialized
observatories and associations at the national, regional or international level.
The survey is available in the three official languages of the Federation, together with a Working
Document, so that universities can make the best possible use of the findings in terms of rethinking
strategies and taking action.
15.2. TOWARDS ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Water management. Water, the environment and health.
Contribution of Latin American Catholic universities to the protection of water and the reduction
of risks related to this resource.
Sustainable water management, with a view
to ensuring adequate protection, is vital for
human development from all points of view:
health, environment, territorial organisation...
The United Nations has included this resource
among its priorities, beginning with the
Millennium Development Goals, among
others, and ending, more recently, with the
declaration of 2013 as the International Year
of Water Cooperation.
The Centre cannot ignore a problem as
important as this, so it has decided to begin a
project focused on water, with a view to continuing to capitalising on the acquisitions obtained in
the sphere of natural and experimental sciences. With the outstanding collaboration of a pioneering
Spanish institution in this field, five Latin American universities are jointly examining aspects
concerning the management of this precious resource which undoubtedly raise bigger questions
and challenges for contemporary society.
The main aim was to study water supply, use and treatment in the broad and diverse frames of
reference of the participating institutions, with the aim of offering solutions to problems of water
quality and their impact on the environment, as well as on the health of the population.

37
This initiative has had a major impact, not just at an academic level through the publication of an
e-book on water management in the countries studied, several articles and participation in national
and international colloquiums but also through media interviews and actions targeted at helping local
populations. These actions included producing a handbook for schools and setting up a Facebook
page aimed at young people. Schools were supplied with a teaching kit to help raise awareness of
the importance of this resource and enable children to learn how to measure water quality, including
a booklet containing recommendations and a factsheet in two languages to promote responsible
water use among the population.
Participating Universities
Universidad Católica de Córdoba (Argentina)
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Colombia)
Universidade Católica de Pernambuco (Brazil)
Pontificia Universidade Católica do Paraná (Brazil)
Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)
IQS – Universitat Ramon Llull (Spain)
15.3. THREE CONTINENTS UNITED BY ONE PROJECT
Prevention of risks associated with displaced persons.
Defining models of educational action.
The Centre invited universities from three different continents to take part in a pioneering research
project centred on an issue that is very important for participating countries. Teams from Latin
America, Asia and Africa examined the response provided at institutional level by both the State and
civil society to the problem of population displacement. The study made it possible to put forward
proposals based on the real situation and that aimed to reduce the risks related to this phenomenon,
largely in preventive and educational terms.

38
Bearing in mind that, in most cases, displaced persons are among the poorest and most marginalised
populations in society, the project was based on recognising the importance of the phenomenon of
displacement at a global level and on the need for more scientific studies that address this issue.
This project on risk prevention associated with displaced persons stems from the increasing level of
concern in societies across the world about this issue and, therefore, from Catholic Universities. An
in-depth study has been conducted and proposals for courses of action regarding public policies and
local initiatives have been put forward, with a view to establishing links with civil and institutional
actors. The findings of this study have revealed the role and importance of Catholic Universities in
terms of research and training in order to help improve the quality of life of displaced persons.
After the completion of the project, at the final meeting held at the Institut Catholique de Kabgayi
(Rwanda), the research teams involved decided to publish their findings at a local level, their
chief aim being to reach university institutions and the institutional and civil actors that deal
with displacement. The information shared comprises practical recommendations (whitepapers,
public reports, etc.) in order to raise awareness among communities, as well as briefings, training
programmes and collaboration initiatives with local actors.
Latin America
Universidad Santo Tomás (Colombia)
Universidad Católica de Colombia (Colombia)
Universidad de San Buenaventura-Cali (Colombia)
Université Notre Dame d’Haïti (Haiti)
Asia
Christ University (India)
Ateneo de Manila University (The Philippines)
Assumption University (Thaïland)
Don Bosco Technical School (Cambodia)
Africa
Uganda Martyrs University (Uganda)
Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (Rwanda)

39
16. MAJOR ISSUES AT THE HEART OF OUR CONCERNS
The Centre always listens to the interests of its member universities; it seeks to address major issues
in the international sphere and engage with any new challenges that emerge in today’s knowledge-
based society.
16.1. International Migrations
Migrations, social capital and human development in Latin America. The role of the social capital
of migrants in the human development of Latin American societies.
For several years, the link between migration and development has been a subject of continuing
concern for political actors, international institutions and associations. Any support migrants
can provide to encourage the transformation of their countries of origin arouses a great deal of
expectation. The involvement of migrants in transnational networks constitutes an undeniable reality
which, in most cases, is not properly exploited due, among other things, to the lack of appropriate
knowledge.
In response to this, the Centre designed an initiative to research the role of the social capital of
immigrants in the Latin American context. The project, backed by the collaboration of Dr Rosa
Aparicio, as an expert in migrations, aimed to provide the Catholic university world, public actors and
local communities, with a better understanding of this issue, as well as suggesting courses of action
to help increase the benefits that migrations can deliver to the human development of migrants’
countries of origin. Besides sharing the findings at specialised academic events, several publications
of a local nature were published.
Participating universities
Universidad Rafael Landívar (Guatemala)
Universidad Alberto Hurtado (Chile)
Fundación Universitaria Luis Amigó (Colombia)
Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (Ecuador)
Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (Peru)
16.2. VIRTUAL TRAINING
Virtual training on the prevention of psychosocial problems in the university world, focusing on
addictions.
Aware of the growing importance of new technologies in contemporary education processes, the
Centre decided to implement a virtual training project. Wishing to leverage previously acquired
knowledge, the Centre also wanted to contribute the wealth of experience it has in the field of
psychosocial problems.

40
The resulting project therefore aimed at preparing trainers using the DICOM virtual platform in order
to help prevent psychosocial problems within the university world and achieve a better quality of life
for communities.
The Fundación Universitaria Luis Amigó (Medellín, Colombia) acted as regional co-ordinator;
promoting training and providing the platform, infrastructure and scientific-academic resources
needed for this initiative. The course consisted of an online diploma providing training for a hundred
people from 2012 to 2014.
The beneficiaries of the course were prevention professionals and actors, together with teachers and
students, who set up an active trainer network across Latin America.
Fundación Universitaria Luis Amigó (Colombia)
Universidad Católica Cardenal Silva Henríquez (Chile)
Universidad Católica de Honduras “Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz” (Honduras)
Universidad Católica de Costa Rica (Costa Rica)
16.3. Drugs use/abuse
Studies of policies and practices in drugs use/abuse.
Catholic universities in dialogue with political and social agents
This project is aligned with the approach adopted by the United Nations and the drug addiction
studies promoted by the Centre for more than twenty years. Researchers from a total of ten countries
from Latin America and Asia based their study and expand on the previous project conducted on this
subject, from which highly valuable recommendations had been drawn.
Specifically, the research teams are examining drug addiction policies in their respective countries in
order to compare them with the practices applied in the field and with the needs of the populations
concerned. The ultimate goal is to identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies and use these
findings to provide valuable data on how to make the necessary adjustments based on ethics and
respect for human rights.
In collaboration with the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (Portugal),
the Centre organised an International Conference entitled “25 years of International Research into
Drug Addiction: Reflections and Exchanges on 5 key themes”, from 25 to 27 September 2013 at the
Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Lisbon, Portugal).
This conference sought to foster dialogue among researchers and political and social actors
regarding an issue that concerns different sectors of society and encompasses human rights, gender,
public health, youth and childhood, safety, the family and social integration. Researchers from
different continents, as well as representatives from civil society organisations and the public sector,
specifically the EMCDDA, took part in this conference to share their scientific findings.

41
Latin America
Universidad Católica Boliviana “San Pablo” (Bolivia)
Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)
Universidad de San Buenaventura-Cartagena (Colombia)
Intercambios Asociación Civil (Argentina)
Asia and Middle East
Assumption University (Thailand)
Atma Jaya Catholic University (Indonesia)
Stella Maris College (India)
University of Santo Tomas (The Philippines)
Université Saint-Joseph (Lebanon)
16.4. Dialogue between cultures and religions
Vatican II. An historic event and challenge for today’s society
This project stemmed from fruitful collaboration between several institutions from different
continents within the framework of the 50th anniversary of Vatican Council II.
It brought together 20 groups, comprising around 100 researchers and experts on Vatican II from all
over the world, as well as from disciplines such as history, theology, Canon law or sociology.
A major International Colloquium was held from 11 to 13 April 2015 in Paris to commemorate the
anniversary of Vatican II and discuss the challenges that this council represents for our society today
and tomorrow, following a process of study, exchange of ideas and reflection. This meeting brought
together one hundred researchers active in this field, from across all the continents of the world, and
includingspecialistsofinternationalrenown. Opensessionswereheldintheeveningsincollaboration
with the principal Christian higher education institutions in Paris, in order to develop the debates
held during the day further and share the wealth of teachings from Vatican II with a wider audience.

42
Key themes of the project:
1. Vatican II, how does it inspire us today?
2. Discerning the present day
3. Unity and diversity in the confluence of the Gospel and the Church with the world and cultures
4. Working to build a culture of peace
5. The service of theology today
The main outcome of this project will be an academic publication aimed at the university world,
with particular emphasis on theologians, but also open to the Church and society in general. This
publication, which will be available in several different languages, is currently being prepared.
Observatory of religious and cultural diversity in Latin America and the Caribbean (ODREC)
The Centre continued to support the consolidation and expansion of an Observatory dedicated to
studying religious and cultural diversity in Latin America. The Observatory, set up and run by the
Universidad de San Buenaventura-Bogotá (Colombia), implements collaboration actions in the fields
of documentation, publication, training and research.
Observatory web page: http://www.usbbog.edu.co/observatorio_religioso/
16.5. University Leadership
Leading a Catholic university in the 21st century. An action-based programme
Dans les pays développés comme dans ceux en voie de développement, les établissements In both
developed and developing countries, Catholic higher education institutions are currently facing a
number of external and internal factors, which, although they do not affect all centres in the same
way, could prove a serious challenge to the stability and, even, the viability of some of the same. By
implementing its “Leading a Catholic University in the 21st century” programme, the Centre seeks
to provide new Vice-Chancellors with insights into such challenges in order to help them adopt the
right approach and, therefore, strengthen the role Catholic higher education institutions play at the
heart of our societies.
Following the pilot programme for English-speaking Vice-Chancellors, implemented between 2010
and 2013, the Spanish-speaking version has brought together 14 Vice- Chancellors from universities
in Latin America (Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico) between 2014 and 2015. The academic team
responsible for designing this project, comprising higher education specialists from the Center for
Higher Education from Boston College, from the Education Faculty at the Pontificia Universidad
Católica de Chile and the Universidad de Campinas in Brazil, took into account the specific

43
characteristics of this subcontinent when planning a relevant and comprehensive programme. Three
face-to-face sessions were held at Universidad Católica Raúl Silva Henríquez (Chile) from 11 to 17
May 2014, at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Colombia) from 17 to 22 November 2014 and, finally,
at Universidad Lasalle (Mexico) from 17 to 23 May 2015. Specialists were invited to attend these
meetings, thereby opening out the sessions to include important issues for our Vice-Chancellors, such
as the characteristics associated with the Catholic identity of our institutions, internationalisation,
training for academic staff, use of new technologies, management or quality.
The feedback from participants in the second programme was very positive, as in the first edition,
which serves to strengthen the Federation’s desire to offer this programme on a regular basis to its
affiliated universities.
16.6. Building a culture of peace
Educating young generations to justice and peace.
Forming in the light of the Social Teaching of the Church.
Mindful of the importance of educating young people on justice and peace, researchers took two
priority groups as a reference point for Africa: young community leaders and young professional
leaders.
These teams are currently examining the efforts of these groups of young people in order to transmit
values that promote justice and peace, departing from the Social Teaching of the Church in five
countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Based on the findings of this analysis, the participants are planning to prepare training materials and
action proposals to strengthen educational activities and raise awareness among young people of
justice and peace in this region of the world.

44
From among the teachings that provide interesting and thought-provoking insights, it is worth
highlighting the fact that young people can be victims of social injustice and, equally, agents
responsible for the same. Emphasis should also be placed on the issue of learning to live together
as one of the greatest challenges we face in education today and the ways in which justice does not
always act as a source of peace but sometimes as a source of conflict.
Participating teams:
Uganda Martyrs University, Uganda
Université Catholique du Graben, D. R. Congo
Catholic University of Mozambique, Mozambique
Centre for Social Justice and Ethics, The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
Catholic University of West Africa, Ivory Coast
16.7. SOCIAL INCLUSION
Worldwide survey on the reception of disabled students
The CRESGE (Centre d’études de recherches de la Université
Catholique de Lille, France), in coordination with IFCU, has
conducted a global inquiry into the reception of disabled
studies at universities affiliated to the Federation.
As a result, it was possible to identify good practices relating to
theinclusionofdisabledstudents,thebenefitsoftheirpresence
in universities and the barriers and obstacles impeding their
inclusion. An academic committee comprising representatives
from IFCU affiliated universities was responsible for ensuring
the methodological quality of the research and provided the
point of contact needed for the study. The overall findings of
this audit, based on data drawn from 104 universities from
across the world, were published in issue 13 of the Journals of
the Centre for Coordination of Research.
Support for the inclusion of disabled students in Catholic Universities
Despite the efforts currently made to include disabled students, there is still a long way to go before
universities manage to address all the needs of this group of students. There are still many barriers
and obstacles to be overcome: laws and policies that fall short or are only applied in part, socio-
cultural barriers stemming from lack of knowledge and pre-existing beliefs or prejudices regarding
disability, problems of accessibility and poor provision of specific equipment, as well as a shortage
of funding.
The preliminary study conducted by the CRESGE (Centre d’études de recherches de la Université
Catholique de Lille, France), in collaboration with the CCR-IFCU, was followed by a programme that
aimed to improve the integration of disabled students in higher education at Catholic universities

45
across the world. This inquiry examined the reception of disabled students in higher education
institutions and universities. It has also revealed a high level of interest from Catholic universities
in addressing the existing social, legal and educational challenges. This quantitative and qualitative
study led to the implementation of a network of exchanges articulated around a panel of Catholic
universities to which other institutions are associated.
This project aims to improve the inclusion of disabled students in higher education at the heart of
the network of Catholic universities. Designed as a long-term support programme, it aims to help
improve university practices and develop training that facilitates the reception of disabled students.
17. RESEARCH FOCUSING ON SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION
The Centre’s projects focus on research to promote social development and transformation,
reflecting the Federation’s motto of Sciat vt Serviat. Projects are designed to have a beneficial impact
on the populations studied and, therefore, on society as a whole.
Said impact is achieved thanks to the joint efforts made with other actors or to the connections
established with civil society, public or private sector workers in the field and with the communities
studied, the latter being, at all times, the direct beneficiaries of the Centre’s projects.
Specifically, the important role played by public sector leaders as regards the processes of
social development and transformation has been noted, including the people in charge of
drawing up public policy and applying it. For this reason the Centre’s projects include either
a direct study of the policies related to the issues researched or specific actions to convey
recommendations to the people responsible for these fields, based on the findings reached.
In this respect, the ultimate goal is to build bridges between research, policies and practices.
18. WORK DYNAMICS
a) Coordination missions
The coordination missions carried out by the Centre are an effective way of monitoring projects. They
facilitate direct contact with researchers in order to find out their current situation, understand the
limitations and strong points of the research environment, observe first-hand the advances achieved
and identify the specific needs of each team. These missions therefore fulfil an institutional role as
they help strengthen existing ties between the Centre and universities affiliated to the Federation.
b) Project meetings
Most of the Centre’s projects are common initiatives, in the sense that the teams that take part
work on the same issues focusing on the specific ways the latter are manifested in each country.
Such projects only make sense if researchers are able to exchange experiences, share best practices
and, above all, lay the foundations on which they can build together. It is also worth mentioning that
these meetings allow for effective project coordination by the Centre.

46
c) International events
In the framework of its cooperation activities, the Centre also organises international meetings,
mainly colloquiums and conferences. Professionals from different spheres and countries attend
these meetings, bringing together scholars from several continents to discuss specific themes.
d) Collaboration with experts
The Centre frequently has recourse to expert collaborators, either through participation in seminars
and colloquiums, or through consultancy on specific themes. These specialists, who often come
from the Catholic university world, although not exclusively, make a valuable contribution to the
respective areas of knowledge and action.
e) Knowledge and experience platform
The Centre regularly makes its experience, knowledge and expertise available to other academic
organisations, as well as to those international cooperation organisations that request its support in
specific fields of interest.
19. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
In order to publicise the various different activities organised by the Centre, its projects and the
findings of the same, the CCR employs a number of information and communication tools and
channels.
Centre Website
Like the Federation’s website, since December 2014 the Centre has had a new portal informing users
about past, current and future activities.

47
Publications
Works on paper or on CD/DVD contribute to ensuring that processes, findings, discourses, education,
recommendations and any other kind of intellectual production are communicated to all individuals
and institutions likely to be interested in the issues dealt with. Along these lines, the Centre actively
promotes the publication of books, manuals, journals and articles as part of its projects.
Since 2005, the CCR has published its own collection of periodicals which, under the title Journals of
the Centre for Coordination of Research, aim to provide reflections, guidance and specialist points of
view on current problems to a broad university audience.
20. PUBLICATIONS FROM THE LAST THREE-YEAR PERIOD
The Centre has published a total of 32 works between 2012 and 2015.
LIST OF CCR PUBLICATIONS
(2012-2015)
DISPLACEMENTS / MIGRATIONS
 METHAVASARAPHAK, Preecha. Preventing risks related to population displacements:
Definig models of educational action in Cambodia. Bangkok: Assumption University/CCR-IFCU, 2015,
40 p.
 IMILAN, Walter; GARCES, Alejandro; MARGARIT, Daisy. Poblaciones en movimiento,
Etnificación de la ciudad, redes e integración. Ediciones Universidad Alberto Hurtado / CCI-FIUC,
2014, 282 p.
 ANSION, Juan; MUJICA, Luis; VILLACORTA, Ana María; PIRAS Gioia. Redes y maletas. Capital
social en familias de migrantes. Lima: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú/CCI-FIUC, 2013, 195 p
 Coloquio Internacional Asia-AméricaLatina. Comprenderlos desplazamientosdepoblación.
Miradas plurales desde la Universidad. Bogotá: Universidad Santo Tomás/CCI-FIUC, 2012, 359 p
 TOHME TABET, Annie; KASPARIAN Choghig. Le retour des déplacés forcés dans leurs villages
d’origine au Liban. Etude de trois cas: Bireh, Damour et Kfar Qatra (1992-2009). Beyrouth: Presses de
l’Université Saint-Joseph/CCI-FIUC (to be released soon).
 GUERRERO CAZAR, Fernando. Migración internacional, capital social y desarrollo humano
local. Quito: Ed. PUCE, 2014.
 PIEDRASANTA HERRERA, Ruth. Migraciones y capital social: contrastes culturales en
territorios rurales de Guatemala (to be released soon).
 GHISO COTOS, Alfredo; MORALES MESA, Santiago; ACEVEDO VALENCIA, Jenny.
“Redes de migrantes y creación de organizaciones socioeconómicas. Estudio de una
experiencia en Medellín, Colombia”, RA-XIMHAI, Vol. 9, n°3, Ed. September 2013, p. 209-234.

48
INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE
 RODRIGUEZ RODRIGUEZ, Susan; GONZALEZ GARCES, Hector Fabio. Reflexiones sobre
ecumenismo y diálogo interreligioso. Bogotá: Universidad San Buenaventura/CCI-FIUC, 2013, 293 p.
 AA.VV. Publication gathering the work done within the international study network on
Vatican II (to be released soon).
DRUGS USE AND ABUSE
 METHAVASARAPHAK, Preecha; OMPHORNUWAT, Kosum. A study on Policies and Practices
in the Field of Drug Use/Abuse. The Catholic University in Dialogue with Political and Social Actors in
Thailand. Research Institute of Assumption University / CCR-IFCU, 2013, 104 p.
 DE JESUS, Armando ; P. CALIMAG, Maria Minerva ; M. DOMA JR Crescencio ; I. REY,
Frederick ; H. de JESUS, RONDOPH JOSEPH. Philippine Policies on Illicit Drugs: History, Content,
Process and Outcome. Manila: University of Santo Tomas/CCR-FIUC, 2013, 136 p.
 AA.VV. Policy brief. Hacia la construcción de respuestas centradas en los derechos humanos.
Políticas de drogas en América latina y Asia. CCI-FIUC, 2013, 6 p.
 JOSEPH, Sandra ; JAIKAR, Lohitha. Policies and practices of drugs use in India : a situational
analysis. Stellas Maris College/CCR-IFCU, Chennai, 2013, 180 p.
 TYAS SUCI, Eunike Sri; FRANSISKA, Asmin; TAMPUBOLON, Lamtiur Hasianna. Long and
winding road. Jakarta: Universitas Katolik Indonesia Atma Jaya/CCR-IFCU, 2015, 312 p.
 MATTA, Houwayda ; HAZAZ, May. Toxicomanie et politique sociale au Liban : mesures et
pratiques, limites et perspectives. Beyrouth : Ed. de l’Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth/CCR-FIUC,
2015, 193 p.
WORLDWIDE STUDY ON YOUTH CULTURES
 APARICIO GOMEZ, Rosa; TORNOS CURBILLO, Andrés. Las culturas de los jóvenes en las
universidades católicas. Un estudio mundial. CCR-FIUC, 2014, 218 p.
 APARICIO GOMEZ, Rosa; TORNOS CURBILLO, Andrés. Sugerencias para la lectura
encaminada a la reflexión pedagógica. Las culturas de los jóvenes en las universidades católicas. Un
estudio mundial. CCR-FIUC, 2014, 8 p.

49
FAMILY
 GUERRERO USEDA, Maria Eugenia; NISIMBLAT, Nattan; GUERRERO BARON, Martha Helena.
Familia, conflicto y fragilidad. Universidad Católica de Colombia/CCI-FIUC, 2013, 105 p.
 GUERRERO USEDA, Maria Eugenia; GUERRERO BARON, Martha Helena. Familia, conflicto y
fragilidad. Informe de política. Universidad Católica de Colombia/CCI-FIUC, 2013, 6 p.
 AA.VV. Aportes a las políticas públicas para el trabajo con familias. CCI-FIUC, 2013, 5 p.
 BAEZA, Jorge; DONOSO DIAZ, Maria de la Paz; MARIN ROJAS, Paola. Familias fragilizadas
en Chile: Propuestas para las políticas públicas y la formación de profesionales. Santiago de Chile:
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez/CCI-FIUC, 2013, 429 p.
 TELES LEMOS, Carolina; DE FARIA VIANA, Maria José; ANDRADE PERES, Vannúzia Leal (éd.).
Famílias brasileiras em situação de conflitividade. Dimensões sócio-históricas, jurídicas, culturais e
subjetivas. Goiânia, Goiás, 1980, 2012. Goiânia: Ed. PUC Goiás, 2014, 206 p.
DEVELOPMENT
 Equipe de Recherche de l’Institut Catholique de Kabgayi. Réduction de la pauvreté au
Rwanda à travers les programmes de développement local. Kabgayi: Recherche et Publications de
l’Institut Catholique de Kabgayi/CCR-IFCU, 2012, 105 p.
 LUKWATA, John; WAKAH, Georges. Paths of Development. Catholic University of Eastern
Africa/ IFCU, 2014.
ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH
 CAMPOS, Claudia; SACONI, Arminda (éd.). Gestión del agua en América del Sur. El estado
de los recursos hídricos en Argentina, Brasil y Colombia. Bogotá: Ed. Pontificia Universidad Javeriana/
FIUC, 2014, 201 p. (e-book)
 M. DE OLIVEIRA, Letícia Paranhos. Caderno de atividades do projeto NOSSO RIO.
Conhecendo e cuidando do seu Arroio. Porto Alegre: EdiPUCRS, 2014, 17 p. (School Book)
 CAMPOS, Claudia; SACONI, Arminda (éd.). El agua y su ciclo: algunos conceptos,
consideraciones y expectativas. Bogotá: Ed. Pontificia Universidad Javeriana/FIUC, 2014, 201 p. (to
be released soon).
 CAMPOS, Claudia (éd.). Publication gathering the results of the project on water
management. Lima: Ed. Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, 2015 (to be released soon).

50
JOURNALS OF THE CCR
 BERNAL RESTREPO, Sergio. Les Sciences Sociales et la Doctrine Sociale de l’Eglise». Cahiers
du Centre de Coordination de la Recherche, Paris : CCR-FIUC, 2013, n° 11, 72 p.
 MABILLE, François ; PAPON, Pierre. « Approches d’une géopolitique de l’environnement ».
Cahiers du Centre de Coordination de la Recherche, Paris : CCR-FIUC, 2014, n° 12, 107 p.
 MABAKA, Placide Mukwabuhika; AUBREE, Loic; DOUCHET, Agathe. «L’inclusion des
étudiants en situation de handicap dans les universités à l’échelle mondiale». Cahiers du Centre de
Coordination de la Recherche, Paris : CCR-FIUC, 2014, n° 13, 77 p.

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E-mail: sgfiuc@bureau.fiuc.org
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