The EDUC-WIDE expert group on research gathered in Brno on December 9-10, 2024, to explore how to implement Gender Equality Plans (GEP) in research. The two-day program featured contributions from both Advanced and Widening partners, with five key presentations driving discussions on the topic.
Ethical Governance of Research and Innovation: A Gender Perspective – The research group “Practical Ethics and Democracy” (Universitat Jaume I, Spain, responsible for coordinating the European project ETHNA to promote good practice in responsible research and innovation) shared insights from two European projects (ETHNA and CATALISI), highlighting lessons on integrating gender perspectives into innovation governance, including the establishment of gender-focused committees.
The Italian Perspective: Training and Awareness Programs – A study on 26 Italian universities examined how institutions translate European Commission GEP requirements into practice, raising concerns about potential misinterpretations. The discussion also addressed the balance between individual efforts and structural reforms in integrating gender into research and teaching.
GEP in EDUC Requires Action: The Norwegian Approach – Norway’s progress in gender balance was showcased, with female professors increasing from 17% in 2004 to 38% in 2024, largely due to national leadership. The Committee for Gender Balance and Diversity in Research plays a key role in addressing gender, ethnic, and social diversity, emphasizing the importance of measurable progress: “What is not measured is not treasured.”
Gender in Open Science: A Hungarian Perspective – A data-driven approach was presented on integrating gender dimensions into Open Science practices. Using scientometric tools like SciVal (Hungarian system), the discussion explored how to assess and promote gender inclusion in research output.
Implementing GEP in Research: The Ukrainian Context – Amidst the challenges of war, Ukraine has identified gender equality in research as a national priority. The goal is to achieve at least 30% gender representation in R&D, with a focus on increasing the number of women in leadership positions.
Despite diverse historical and sociological backgrounds, all participants acknowledged similar challenges in advancing gender equality in research. Sharing experiences and best practices remains a powerful tool for progress, as gender issues often struggle to find a place within established systems.
Why is a Gender Equality Plan Important?
- Promotes diversity and fairness in organizations.
- Improves research quality and innovation by considering diverse perspectives.
- Meets funding requirements (e.g., Horizon Europe mandates a GEP).
- Enhances workplace productivity and satisfaction.