The International Day of Women and Girls in Science provides an important opportunity to reflect on both the progress achieved and the challenges that remain. Although women represent a large share of university graduates and early-career researchers in Europe, they continue to be underrepresented in senior academic positions, decision-making bodies, and certain scientific fields, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
In response to these challenges, the European Commission has embedded gender equality firmly into its research and innovation policy framework, recognising it not only as a fundamental right but also as a driver of research excellence, quality, and societal relevance. In this context, the European Commission has prepared the Action Plan for Women in Research, Innovation and Start-ups, which aims to strengthen support for women and address remaining barriers across these sectors. The Plan is expected to be adopted in the second quarter of 2026.
In line with these European priorities and the values highlighted by the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the CODE – YAA@PC-EDU project actively strives to be gender-equal in its approach, ensuring equal opportunities for women and men in participation, representation, and decision-making, and applying a gender-sensitive perspective throughout its activities and outputs.
