While strides have been made in recent decades towards gender equity in education and career opportunities, significant inequalities persist in areas like work-life balance, career advancement, leadership roles, and salary fairness.
As part of NOVA University Lisbon, MagIC adopts the “Gender Equality Plan - NOVA University Lisbon 2021-2025” (NOVA GEP), adapting it to the specific context of our research center. NOVA's GEP, following SPEAR guidelines, adheres to international and national frameworks addressing gender-based inequalities and discrimination. These frameworks include the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 Agenda, the European Union Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, and the Portuguese National Strategy for Equality and Non-Discrimination 2018-2030 “Portugal+Igual” (ENIND). Within this framework, we identify key measures to address and eliminate gender-based discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all:
- Foster a culture of gender equality and promote unbiased social environments.
- Reduce gender-based inequalities and discrimination in employment.
- Encourage equal opportunities in leadership and decision-making roles.
- Eliminate the gender pay gap.
- Promote work-life balance for a healthy personal and professional life.
- Ensure equal access to training and educational opportunities.
- Combat stigma and discrimination based on gender, disabilities, and age.
- Promote inclusive and future-oriented scientific and technological development.
- Combat gender-based violence and harassment.
To ensure the successful implementation of these measures and continued alignment with NOVA's GEP, MagIC has designated a gender equality representative. This representative acts as a liaison between MagIC/NOVA IMS school and the NOVA Rectorate, specifically focusing on monitoring the GEP and its related activities, such as training and awareness campaigns.