How to foster diversity, inclusiveness and equality in science

While a common set of basic shared values exists at European level, the European Union is characterised and enriched by pluralism and socio-cultural diversity. The concepts of equality and non-discrimination, and in particular equality between women and men, are also deeply rooted in the European Union’s values and principles Respect for differences, solidarity, justice and equality of treatment are implicit milestones in building a Europe-wide democratic society. Europe is nowadays witnessing an acceleration of its transformation into an ever more multi-cultural society and in which diversities are becoming more marked.
In order therefore to increase acceptance of science, it is important that diversity is encouraged, not only in the research population but also in the scientific objectives and methods. The session will particularly address issues related to ethics (how European cultural diversity relates to science and technology; how ethics reflects diversity and inclusiveness and how research benefits from such an effort) and gender (why addressing the gender dimension is a prerequisite for good science).
The debate will also put a spotlight on the scientific work force, in particular the lack of young people entering science; the obstacles facing women in science and technology careers and how socio-cultural diversities may be used to increase European societal and cultural inclusiveness and competitiveness.

See the programme