Despite ongoing efforts to address gender equal participation in research and innovation (R&I), women still account for only 34% of EU researchers. And this isn't just about fairness and equal opportunities - it's about unlocking Europe's full innovative potential. With such gender underrepresentation in shaping scientific breakthroughs, we miss crucial perspectives that could solve tomorrow's challenges more effectively. The stakes are high. As global competition in science and technology intensifies, the EU cannot afford to waste talent or limit the diversity of minds tackling complex problems. Gender equality in R&I is a strategic imperative for maintaining Europe's competitive edge and ensuring research serves everyone, not just some.

The presentations and discussions during this workshop provided a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges and opportunities in promoting gender equality in R&I, and to identify effective strategies and solutions for addressing these challenges. This workshop contributed to a more inclusive and equitable R&I ecosystem in Europe, where gender equality is valued and promoted, and contributes to lead in science and innovation.

Programme

15.00 - 15.10 Welcome and introductory remarks

● Lina GÁLVEZ MUÑOZ
MEP and Vice-Chair of the Panel for the Future of Science and Technology (STOA)

15.10 - 15.25 Opening address by Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation

15.25 - 16.20 Panel presentations

Moderated by Lina GÁLVEZ MUÑOZ

● Mieke VERLOO
Professor of comparative politics and inequality issues, Radboud University

● Janet LAIDLA
Research Fellow, University of Tartu

● Ophelia DEROY
Professor of Philosophy of Mind, Ludwig Maximilian University

● Marcela LINKOVA
Researcher and Head of the Centre for Gender and Science, Czech Academy of Sciences

16.20 - 16.35 Panel discussion

16.35 - 16.50 Q&A session

16.50 - 17.00 Closing remarks

● Ivars IJABS
MEP and Vice-Chair of the Panel for the Future of Science and Technology (STOA)

The event was held in English only, without interpretation.
The event was recorded via the link below.