INSPIRE 2nd Conference: Inclusive Gender Equality in R&I from an Intersectional Perspective: Lessons from INSPIRE for the evidence base, practice & policy

On 16–17 April 2026, the INSPIRE Centre of Excellence on Inclusive Gender Equality in Research and Innovation (R&I) was hosting its 2nd Conference in Brussels, bringing together policymakers, researchers, and practitioners from across Europe.

The conference, titled “Inclusive Gender Equality in R&I from an Intersectional Perspective: Lessons from INSPIRE for the evidence base, practice & policy”, focuses on advancing inclusive approaches to gender equality and addressing current and future challenges within the

INSPIRE is a Horizon Europe project dedicated to strengthening gender equality in research and innovation by promoting intersectional approaches, supporting institutional change, and contributing to evidence-based policymaking. Over the past four years, the project has developed tools, knowledge, and communities aimed at fostering more inclusive R&I systems across Europe.

The two-day event provides a comprehensive programme combining research insights, practical experiences, and policy discussions.

The first day focuses on INSPIRE’s key research findings and practical applications, including:

• Building the evidence base for inclusive gender equality in R&I
• Insights from surveys, gender equality plans, and intersectionality research
• Integration of gender dimensions into research and innovation

In the afternoon, the programme highlights the role of Communities of Practice (CoPs) as drivers of change, addressing:

• Sustaining long-term institutional transformation
• Widening participation across diverse contexts
• Embedding intersectionality and innovation in practice

The second day shifts focus toward policy and long-term impact, exploring:

• Future directions for EU gender equality policies in R&I
• Embedding inclusive approaches within national and European frameworks
• Lessons learned from INSPIRE for policymakers and institutions

Panel discussions also address:

• Intersectionality as a foundation for systemic change
• Strategies for widening participation and sustaining progress
• Future pathways for inclusive research and innovation ecosystems

The Foundation for Management and Industrial Research is represented at the conference by: Gabriela Kostovska Bogoeska, Executive Director & Emilija Andonova, Programme Manager. They are actively contributing to the discussions by sharing knowledge and experiences from the STREAM IT project, a sister initiative that complements INSPIRE’s objectives by promoting inclusive innovation and collaborative approaches in R&I.

Their participation strengthens the link between research, practice, and policy, demonstrating how project-level insights can support broader European goals for inclusion and equality.

As INSPIRE reaches its final phase, the conference serves as a key platform to reflect on achievements and define the next steps toward a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative European Research Area. The discussions and outcomes from this event will continue to inform future policies, institutional practices, and collaborative efforts across Europe.