"Do we still need Equality Plans in R&D?" The ICMAB Action Plan for Equality and Inclusion 2024-28

By Lourdes Fàbrega, Vicedirector of ICMAB-CSIC and Coordinator of the Gender Equality and Diversity Comittee

Wednesday, 19 February 2025
11 AM
ICMAB - Sala d'Actes Carles Miravitlles

Despite significant progress in recent decades, achieving gender equality—both in society and in STEM—remains a challenge. This underscores the need for comprehensive Equality Plans. Initially focused solely on gender issues, these plans are now evolving to incorporate intersectionality and the inclusion of minority groups.

Closing the gender gap and addressing inequalities requires the commitment and participation of everyone, ultimately fostering a more equitable, inclusive, and productive scientific environment.

ICMAB recently approved the Action Plan for Equality and Inclusion 2024-2028 (PLA3I). This talk will present the PLA3I and emphasize the importance of Equality Plans in research and development (R&D). First, I will highlight data that demonstrate the persistent gender gaps in R&D. The underrepresentation of women persists due to a combination of social, cultural, and structural barriers that have historically restricted their access and participation in science. I will provide a brief overview of these factors, with a particular focus on the challenges women have faced in accessing higher education and scientific institutions.

Following this, I will introduce the PLA3I, beginning with an analysis of equality-related data at ICMAB, followed by an outline of the plan’s objectives and proposed actions.

The presentation will conclude with an open discussion on the question posed in the title and the contents of the PLA3I.