The present recommendation aims to set out guidelines for and good practice in the governance and management of the heritage of European universities.

The provisions of this recommendation are applicable to higher education institutions and bodies seeking to adhere to the traditions and values that this heritage represents as defined in the present recommendation, and that assume responsibility for the protection and enhancement of these traditions and values as a common European heritage, regardless of the age of these institutions.

This recommendation is addressed to governments. However, in view of the shared responsibility for the governance and management of university heritage, its provisions may be implemented not only by governments, but also by other public authorities at national, regional and local levels, higher education institutions and public bodies responsible for the management and protection of cultural heritage, as the case may be.