From 10 to 28 November 2025, as part of the ERIK — Equality, Rights and Inclusion Knowledge project (funded by the Swedish Institute and the Swedish Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP), coordinated by Linköping University, Sweden), online seminars and interactive sessions on gender equality in the EU were held.
The training was conducted under Module 1: Foundation of Gender Equality in the EU Context (Session A: Introduction to Gender Equality in the EU Context).
The objective of the sessions was to familiarize participants with key EU documents on gender equality, analyze national frameworks, and assess the effectiveness of implementing European policies through practical case studies.
The events brought together representatives of partner organizations, including Comrat State University and the National Agency for Research and Development (Moldova), Armenian State University of Economics and The National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia (Armenia), and the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (Poland). Additionally, participants from Moldova, Armenia, and Ukraine took part, totaling 39 people.
The program began on 10 November 2025, when participants examined the legal basis for gender equality in the EU, historical milestones (the principle of equal pay, gender mainstreaming), and current challenges, including the gender pay gap and underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. Participants studied the EU Gender Equality Strategy 2020–2025 and the Gender Action Plan III, and took part in an interactive exercise, “A Day in the Life of Men and Women”, analyzing social norms and everyday differences.
On 14 November 2025, the focus was on gender equality as a pillar of democracy and citizen participation in governance. Participants discussed the link between the rule of law and equal rights, explored practical examples of successful gender mainstreaming in Sweden, and examined equality initiatives in Poland. Group discussions allowed participants to exchange experiences and generate ideas for practical application.
On 21 November 2025, participants studied in detail the main priorities of the EU Gender Equality Strategy 2020–2025 and the external dimension of the Gender Action Plan III. Discussions included the impact of these policies on national gender equality frameworks and preparation for the requirements of Horizon Europe Gender Equality Plans (GEPs).
On 28 November 2025, the session focused on gender equality in research and innovation within the Horizon Europe program. Participants learned about key elements of GEPs, examined the experience of partners from Sweden, Poland, Armenia, and Moldova, engaged in discussions, and began working on group projects to map gender equality in their countries.
The training seminars provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of EU gender equality policies, introduced best practices in implementing strategies and plans across countries, and facilitated discussion of current challenges.
The next stage of Module 1, running from 1 December 2025 to 30 January 2026, will include self-directed study, work on assignments, and group workshops, during which participants will develop and present projects mapping gender equality in their respective countries.
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