The recent International Day of Women and Girls in Science and International Women’s Day highlighted the ongoing need to advance equality, diversity, and inclusion in research through sustained and collective action.

Science Europe organised a public webinar to explore the crucial role of research organisations in fostering inclusive practices, creating diverse research environments, and empowering underrepresented groups to drive scientific excellence.

During the webinar, we discussed ways to improve conditions for mobility and participation in research for women and under-represented groups. Topics included equitable access to mobility initiatives and programmes, targeted support schemes, gender- and equality-sensitive policies at host institutions, measures addressing safety concerns and gender-based violence, and policies supporting care responsibilities.

Programme

The panel discussion offered an opportunity to share best practices, lessons learned, and innovative strategies to create more inclusive research environments. The programme featured presentations and a panel discussion with:

• Laurence Guyard, Head of Scientific Community Relations, Scientific Integrity and Deontology Officer, Gender Equality Officer, French National Research Agency
• Kristin Engh Førde, Director of Kilden, Research Council of Norway
• Charlotte Rösel, Equal Opportunities Coordinator, Austrian Academy of Sciences and coordinator of the OÄW Working Group on Non-Discrimination
• Kateřina Svíčková, Head of Sector for Gender in the Commission’s Directorate General for Research and Innovation

Moderator

• Lidia Borrell-Damián, Secretary General, Science Europe