GENDERACTIONplus is an EU-funded project made up of National Authorities and Research Funding Organisations (RFOs) committed to advancing gender equality in the European Research Area (ERA). Building on benchmark findings established in the initial phase of the project, the project is now developing strategic policy advice aimed at shaping the negotiations for Framework Programme 10 (FP10). The work is critical to ensure that progress in gender equality and inclusiveness is not only maintained but strengthened as we move forward to the next Framework Programme.
Policy Advice in a Critical Moment
As 2024 draws to a close, the political landscape has shifted significantly. A stronger ultra-right presence in the European Parliament, a European Commission with reduced gender balance, and the merging of the equality portfolio with crisis management portfolio underscore growing challenges to intersectional gender equality. In this context, we find it more important than ever to share quality policy recommendations to ensure that progress in gender equality and inclusiveness is not only maintained but strengthened as we move forward to FP10:
Gender Equality Plans (GEPs) must become a permanent and sustainable feature of the European R&I ecosystem, with mandatory thematic areas, funding for intersectionality-focused initiatives, and robust monitoring systems to ensure meaningful implementation and inclusivity.
To combat gender-based violence, research and higher education institutions seeking EU funding must implement the Zero-Tolerance Code of Conduct, establishing supporting procedures and dedicated staff, along with collaboration across the European Research Area and European Higher Education Area.
To integrate the gender dimension in research and innovation, EU funding applicants should include inclusive gender analysis in their proposals (with an explanation if it is not relevant), while ensuring that research results are reported with gender-disaggregated data.
These measures are vital for supporting diverse talent, creating inclusive research environments, and ensuring that European R&I leads in global innovation and equity.
Insights from GENDERACTIONplus Position Papers
To further elaborate on these policy recommendations, GENDERACTIONplus has released several key position papers, each addressing critical aspects of gender equality in the ERA:
A New ERA of Inclusion and Intersectionality: This paper discusses the importance of integrating policies that reflect the diversity of society and address the intersecting dimensions of inequality in Higher Education and Research and Innovation, with recommendations for the European, national, and RFO levels.
Supporting gender expertise among NCPs for better results on inclusive gender analysis in R&I in Horizon Europe: This paper highlights the challenges and recommendations for strengthening the National Contact Point (NCP) system in Horizon Europe to better support the integration of the gender dimension in Research and Innovation proposals.
Ending gender-based violence through research funding: This paper outlines how RFOs can contribute to combatting gender-based violence in the European Research Area by adopting the RELIEF model and implementing key recommendations to create safer and more inclusive research environments.
Gender-based violence in the ERA: An endemic problem in need of a new cure: This paper advocates for the establishment of a sustainable infrastructure at the EU level to combat gender-based violence in the ERA, urging the European Commission to enforce stronger measures and ensure consistent support for victims.
A new ERA for GEPs: An active role for the European Commission: This paper emphasises the need for a comprehensive European monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the impact of GEPs, urging the European Commission to provide clear guidance for Member States to effectively implement and measure gender equality initiatives.
Research careers: The Ground for Gender+ Inclusion: This paper highlights the need for more inclusive and sustainable research careers in the EU, offering recommendations to address the gaps in gender equality policies and promote non-linear career paths across various levels, including EU, national, and institutional frameworks.
Save the Date: GENDERACTIONplus Final Conference
Come discuss this advice and help forge a path to the future at our GENDERACTIONplus Final Conference on 12 February 2025 in Brussels and online. The aim of the conference is to review the progress made in advancing inclusive gender equality in the ERA; assess advances in policy coordination accomplished through GENDERACTIONplus CoPs; and engage in a ‘whole system’ dialogue with policy makers, research funders, ERA stakeholder organisations, ERA gender equality officers, and scholars to discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Follow the website for more updates on registration and conference content.
Together, let’s ensure that inclusive gender equality remains a priority in the European Research Area. We look forward to your participation!
