Equality and Inclusion: Strengthening Excellence in Research Webinar Report

This report presents the outcomes of Science Europe’s webinar 'Equality and Inclusion: Strengthening Excellence in Research,' held on 20 March 2026. The webinar explored how equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) policies can contribute to stronger research cultures, improve research quality, and support scientific excellence across Europe.

The discussions highlighted the growing recognition that EDI is not only a human resources issue, but also a structural and methodological dimension of research and innovation. Speakers emphasised the importance of integrating gender and diversity perspectives into research content, funding schemes, evaluation processes, and institutional governance. The discussion also examined how research organisations can create more inclusive environments by addressing barriers linked to mobility, career progression, care responsibilities, and unequal access to opportunities.

A key focus of the session was the implementation of Gender Equality Plans (GEPs), which are now mandatory eligibility criteria under Horizon Europe. Participants underlined that the existence of GEPs alone is not sufficient, and stressed the need for stronger monitoring, evaluation, and accountability mechanisms to ensure meaningful impact. The importance of intersectional approaches was also emphasised, particularly in recognising how gender intersects with ethnicity, disability, social background, and other dimensions of diversity.

The report further highlights concerns related to gender-based violence and sexual harassment in research environments, including the lack of trust in reporting systems, inconsistent institutional responses, and the persistence of harmful power structures. Participants called for stronger prevention measures, confidential and transparent reporting mechanisms, mandatory awareness training, and greater institutional accountability. Several examples of good practices and targeted support measures from European organisations were presented throughout the webinar.

The report concludes with a set of priorities and next steps for Science Europe, including strengthening the evidence base on EDI, implementing the GenderSAFE pledge for zero tolerance on gender-based violence, supporting the development of inclusive policies within the European Research Area, and continuing to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion as key components of excellent and responsible research systems.