The Coimbra Group brings together nearly forty European universities and aims to influence European education and research policy, in addition to promoting research cooperation and student and academic mobility. The group emphasizes the preservation of university traditions and the promotion of academic excellence in the context of global challenges. Charles University has been a long-standing active member of this group.

Through its involvement in the Coimbra Group, CU is developing cooperation in key areas that contribute not only to the development of the academic environment but also to addressing global sustainability challenges. The Coimbra Group's annual conference was last held in Prague in 2021 and was dedicated to the topic of sustainable universities.

In March 2025, Charles University has signed the Durham Declaration on the issues of climate change and sustainability, introduced at Durham symposium organised by Coimbra Group members. The Declaration sets out 7 principles to embed sustainability in research, education, and operations. Represented by member of the Rector's Board for Social Affairs and Sustainable Development Lenka Henebergová, Charles University reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development, highlighting initiatives like green campus projects and plant-based canteen diet.

The Durham Declaration sets out 7 key principles/principles for collaboration:

1. Leadership in climate science and sustainability – Coimbra Group universities are among the pioneers in research on climate change and its impacts on nature and society.

2. Urgency for action – Scientific collaboration on climate change, including policy engagement and education, is more important than ever.

3. Role of universities as innovators – Academic institutions play a key role in technology transfer and the implementation of sustainable solutions.

4. Responsibility for education – With over a million students a year, universities have a responsibility to educate future generations.

5. Partnerships for change – Collaboration with regional, national and global organisations is key to strengthening the resilience of society.

6. Responsible investment – Universities commit to transforming their campuses into models of sustainability.

7. Continuing to innovate together – Emphasizing the need to deepen cooperation and create synergies between universities and partners.