Principles of Collaboration: Building Equal and Responsible Partnerships

As one of the world’s leading institutions in the fields of life sciences, agriculture, environment, and food systems, WUR is committed to generating high-quality knowledge, education, and research that tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time. From ensuring healthy and sufficient food for all to shaping sustainable, circular, and nature-inclusive food production systems — we aim to design and accelerate the transitions needed for a more resilient future.

Strategisch Plan 2025 - 2028

We also actively contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation, support the transition to a circular and bio-based economy, protect biodiversity, and promote the sustainable use of both terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Why we collaborate

Addressing these complex global challenges cannot be done in isolation. They require strong, transparent, and responsible partnerships — both locally and globally. However, evolving geopolitical realities, shifting economic dynamics, and growing public debates around the ethical dimensions of collaboration (such as working with the fossil fuel or tobacco industries), have underscored the need for clearer guidance.

In addition, national developments such as the launch of the National Guideline on Knowledge Security have highlighted the importance of safeguarding values, integrity, and security in international collaboration.

A framework for responsible cooperation

To help navigate these challenges, WUR has developed Principles for Collaboration as a framework how to engage with partners. The principles document covers:

  • Our mission
  • Why we collaborate
  • The guiding principles that define and support our partnerships

The principles applie to all forms of collaboration — from small-scale or project-based partnerships to long-term strategic alliances involving multiple stakeholders. It also covers formal agreements such as Memoranda of Understanding, student exchange programmes (BSc, MSc, PhD), and joint or double degree programmes.

Support for employees

To help staff to work with these principles, they will be offered guidance in navigating partnership decisions. This will include a network of collaboration liaisons in each science group and a collaboration advisory point.

By embedding our values into every collaboration, we aim to foster equal partnerships, promote transparency, and ensure that our work contributes meaningfully to a more sustainable and just world.

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