Submission to the European Commission Action Plan for Women in Research, Innovation and Startups
In our submission, we highlight the persistent structural and cultural barriers faced by women in research, innovation, and startups. These include bias in evaluation and recognition, underrepresentation in leadership, unequal access to funding and networks, and the ongoing impact of caregiving responsibilities.
The submission also addresses why fewer young women pursue STEM careers, pointing to gender stereotypes, lack of visible role models, and confidence gaps shaped from an early age. It emphasizes that underrepresentation not only limits individual opportunities but also weakens research quality, innovation, and competitiveness by reducing diversity of thought and talent.
Taking an intersectional perspective, the document underscores how overlapping identities—such as race, disability, age, or LGBTQIA+ status—can further intensify these challenges.
To drive meaningful change, we call for coordinated EU action, including stronger gender equality policies, bias-free funding mechanisms, inclusive leadership targets, and expanded mentorship and support systems. It also advocates for a unified EU approach to tackling gender-based violence and harassment in research environments. Read our full response below.
