EU Delegation and Belgian Embassy Host London Panel on Gender Equality in STEM
Joint event highlights inclusive innovation and solutions to close STEM gender gaps
March 18th, 2026
The Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom hosted a high-level panel discussion in London on the importance of gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Organised in cooperation with the Embassy of Belgium in the United Kingdom and the Flanders Delegation to the United Kingdom, the event brought together stakeholders from business, academia and civil society to examine how closing the gender gap can strengthen Europe’s innovation ecosystem and economic resilience.
The discussion opened with remarks by Jeroen Cooreman and Marie-Laure de Bergh, who emphasised the strategic importance of inclusive participation in STEM sectors. They highlighted that achieving gender balance is not only a matter of equity but also a key driver of competitiveness, innovation and sustainable growth across Europe. The panel reflected broader European Union priorities under initiatives aimed at fostering research excellence, digital transformation and inclusive economic development.
The expert panel featured Françoise Chombar, Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Louise Archer and Niamh Mallaghan, and was moderated by Caitlin Mellor. Participants explored practical measures to address structural barriers, including improving access to education, strengthening mentorship networks, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. The discussion focused on how governments, universities and industry can collaborate to unlock Europe’s full talent potential and ensure broader participation in sectors critical to future economic development.
Beyond the immediate policy discussion, the event illustrated the role of science and innovation diplomacy in shaping transnational cooperation. By convening diverse stakeholders across sectors and countries, such initiatives contribute to aligning policy approaches and sharing best practices within a multilateral European framework. Promoting gender equality in STEM also has strategic implications, as it supports the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving technological advancement and maintaining Europe’s global competitiveness.
The event concluded with an exchange of ideas among participants, reinforcing the importance of continued collaboration in addressing gender disparities in STEM fields. Through partnerships between diplomatic missions, academic institutions and industry leaders, the European Union and its member states aim to advance inclusive innovation and build a more resilient and competitive knowledge-based economy.
