Here we explore these collaborative networks designed to share knowledge and promote a more inclusive approach to science.
In 2020, the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC) took a major step forward in promoting gender equality with the approval of its first Gender Equality Plan (GEP). This progress was driven by its participation in two Horizon 2020 European projects: Leading Towards Sustainable Gender Equality Plans in research performing organizations (LeTSGEPs) and Responsible research and innovation grounding practices in BIOSciences (ResBIOS).
Since then, the Institute has strategically integrated into Communities of Practice (CoPs), which are collaborative networks that serve as dynamic spaces where organizations and individuals share knowledge, experiences, and best practices to tackle common challenges. These networks are built on three key elements: a domain of knowledge that defines a set of shared topics, a community of people united by their interest in this domain, and a shared practice that is collectively developed to effectively address identified challenges.
ICM’s Participation in SuSTEM: Co-Creating Knowledge
In 2024, ICM joined a Community of Practice established through the European research project INSPIRE: Building Europe’s Centre of Excellence on Inclusive Gender Equality in R&I. The INSPIRE CoPs operate within four Knowledge and Support Hubs (KSHs): Sustainability of Change, Widening Participation, Intersectionality and Promoting Innovation in the Private Sector.
As part of the KSH for the Sustainability of Change, ICM co-facilitates the CoP Sustainable Inclusive Gender Equality in STEM (SuSTEM) in collaboration with TU Dublin (Ireland). SuSTEM brings together 15 universities and research organizations (RPOs) from five countries—Spain, Ireland, Germany, Italy, and Northern Ireland—to foster inclusive and sustainable gender equality in institutional environments.
This CoP enables institutions to share experiences, successes, and barriers encountered during the implementation of inclusive GEPs. Additionally, it fosters a mutual learning environment where participants gain new perspectives to strengthen their capacity for sustainable organizational change and apply intersectional approaches to ensure that gender equality efforts address the needs of diverse groups. Through SuSTEM, ICM and its partners actively contribute to the collective creation of knowledge, integrating gender equality and organizational change into institutional strategic agendas.
ICM’s learnings: key success factors of the GEP
The ICM GEP has proven to be a powerful and transformative tool, capable of driving systemic change within the organization. According to ICM’s experience, several factors have been crucial to the success and sustainability of the GEP. Firstly, the strategic commitment of the organization, with the direct participation of people with leadership and decision-making responsibilities, has been fundamental. In addition, tailored and evidence-based strategies and measures have been designed according to institutional needs. The adoption of best practices and lessons learned from other institutions has enriched the process, while access to gender expertise, supported by the ICM Equality Task Force, has ensured effective implementation.
Another essential element has been the availability of funds and resources allocated to ensure the continuity of the GEP beyond external financing cycles. At the same time, the creation of networks with diverse actors has facilitated the exchange of knowledge and the strengthening of capacities. Finally, the institutionalization of the EPG has made it a central axis of gender equality efforts within the ICM. An additional factor enabling success is the existence of an applicable legal framework, which provides a solid foundation for gender equality efforts.
The role of CoPs in capacity building and knowledge creation
SuSTEM exemplifies how CoPs create spaces for knowledge exchange and co-creation, connecting diverse organizations and perspectives. By evaluating existing measures and strategies and collaboratively developing new initiatives, SuSTEM serves as a platform for continuous learning and improvement.
CoPs are a key strategy for organizational capacity building, fostering collaborative learning where participants co-develop solutions and share knowledge, leading to innovative approaches. They also promote mutual support, creating a network that collectively addresses shared challenges.
SuSTEM and similar CoPs illustrate how collaborative networks drive capacity building and knowledge creation, advancing sustainable and inclusive gender equality in the Research and Innovation (R&I) ecosystem. By leveraging collective expertise and promoting intersectional approaches, CoPs provide essential platforms for making gender equality a central organizational and social priority.