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Equity, diversity and inclusion and belonging (EDIB) are important priorities for universities and are also reflected in their broader contribution to society.

At many institutions, EDIB has become foundation of learning and teaching, research and innovation as well as institutional cultures. They take action to enhance the participation of people from under-represented and disadvantaged backgrounds, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, religion, and ethnical, cultural, economic and social background. This can include the implementation of gender equality plans, refugee integration, recognition of study periods and qualifications, provision of lifelong learning, inclusive assessment methods and accessible infrastructure and learning material, non-discrimination policies or core hours policies enabling participation of staff with caring responsibilities.

EUA works to ensure that universities across Europe have a platform to share their approaches and strategies on EDIB, notably as part of its new Research and Innovation Agenda 2027. The Association facilitates an ongoing European-wide discussion on the topic, fostering peer-learning activities and supporting members in understanding how EDIB can be embedded into higher education, research and innovation and university management.

Consult EUA’s R&I Agenda

EUA also provides its findings to inform relevant policy debates, for instance within the Bologna Process and contributes to policy discussions such as through the ERA Forum (cf. ERA Action 5 on promoting gender equality and fostering inclusiveness), the BFUG Working Group on the social dimension, and the European Commission’s Working Group on Equality and Values in Education and Training. Additionally, EUA is involved in raising awareness on gender disparities in universities through its yearly International Women’s Day campaign.

Watch EUA’s IWD 2023 interviews on advancing gender equality through better research assessment

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