The European Commission has published its 2024 report on the post-evaluation of Horizon 2020, the EU’s framework programme for research and innovation. This comprehensive evaluation assesses the programme’s impact, efficiency, coherence with other initiatives, and relevance to societal needs.
While progress has been made in gender equality under Horizon 2020—evidenced by the share of women in evaluation panels reaching 42% (exceeding the 40% target)—there is still significant work to be done. The representation of women in scientific advisory panels and as researchers in projects remains below the 50% target, at 43% and 23%, respectively.
In response, Horizon Europe has been revised to incorporate the gender dimension throughout the entire programme. The European Observatory on Gender in STI, established under Horizon 2020, continues to monitor and support these initiatives, ensuring that gender equality remains a key priority in research and innovation.