Inclusive Gender Equality Plan for the University of Warsaw 2026 – 2030
The University of Warsaw has launched a new Inclusive Gender Equality Plan for 2026–2030. The document was formally introduced by the Ordinance no. 102 of the Rector of the University of Warsaw dated July 29, 2026, and came into effect on the date of its signing. The plan outlines the University’s activities for the coming years, integrating gender equality with a broader policy of equal treatment, diversity, accessibility, counteracting discrimination, and building a safe and supportive academic environment.
The new Plan is a continuation of the activities undertaken as part of the UW Gender Equality Plan for 2020–2024, but also responds to new challenges and needs of the academic community. It was prepared based on the results of research and analyses conducted at the University, an evaluation of the previous Plan, the results of the university-wide study “Equality at the University of Warsaw” 2024, and also based on European Commission guidelines and the University of Warsaw Strategy for 2023–2032.
While the document retains the name “Gender Equality Plan,” its scope is broader than simply addressing gender relations. The new Plan encompasses the entire University of Warsaw community – students, doctoral candidates, and employees, including academic and administrative staff. It also addresses the situation of groups that may be particularly vulnerable to unequal treatment or exclusion, including people with disabilities and neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those combining work or study with caring responsibilities.
A key assumption of the Plan is its systemic approach – integrating equality initiatives into the functioning of the entire university, as well as greater involvement of faculties and other UW units. Implementation evaluation and progress reporting are also planned, and adjustments and new actions can be implemented as the needs of the academic community change.
The 2026–2030 plan is divided into five main goals, encompassing educational and communication activities, as well as solutions related to safety, academic careers, parenting, and research and teaching.
1. Strengthening positive attitudes towards equality and diversity
The first goal focuses on building an organizational culture at the University of Warsaw based on respect, collaboration, and responsibility. One important element will be the further development of the Equality Observatory as an analytical and research team, as well as the systematic collection, analysis, and publication of data on equality and diversity at the University. Education will also play a significant role. The plan envisages the development and dissemination of mandatory equality training, including its inclusion in the onboarding process for new students at the University.
The development of equality communication will also be a key element. The University of Warsaw plans to create a more coherent information system about available forms of support, procedures, and response options – using plain language, accessible materials, a website, meetings, consultations, and other communication channels.
2. Support for Groups Particularly Vulnerable to Discrimination
The second goal focuses on strengthening the support system for individuals who, due to their situation or characteristics, may be at greater risk of discrimination and exclusion.
The plan includes, among other things, further actions to counteract gender-based violence and sexual harassment. These include updating and disseminating educational materials, incorporating appropriate modules into mandatory training, organizing regular training sessions for various groups within the University of Warsaw community, and developing psychological support for victims.
A support system for neurodiverse individuals and people with disabilities will also be developed. The plan includes mapping and disseminating information about accessible spaces, such as quiet rooms and relaxation zones, as well as developing solutions that address the needs of neuroatypical individuals. The activities also include initiatives concerning the international community, countering hate speech and hate speech, and the continuation of the Pink Box program.
3. Equal recruitment and support for women’s career paths
The third goal addresses the persistent disparities in the representation of women and men in individual disciplines and at subsequent stages of academic careers.
The plan assumes the development of activities supporting women’s careers, including mentoring and development programs. The Young Researchers and Educators Program, aimed at reducing the loss of women’s engagement at subsequent stages of their academic careers, will be continued and expanded, as will the University of Warsaw’s Network of Female Doctoral Students. Another new element is the University of Warsaw’s Women Leadership Development Program, the pilot of which began in 2026. The program is aimed at women employed in both academic and administrative staff, as well as doctoral students. Its goal is to develop leadership competencies and prepare participants for leadership roles within the university.
4. Combining Work, Family, and Private Life
Another area of the Plan addresses work-life balance, parenthood, and broader caregiving responsibilities.
The University of Warsaw plans to further develop infrastructure and solutions supporting parents and caregivers. Activities include developing care institutions, considering the possibility of organizing emergency childcare, creating and disseminating information about parent-friendly spaces, and mapping child feeding and care areas. The plan also includes solutions to facilitate combining caregiving responsibilities with professional activity during holidays and vacations, as well as support for those returning to professional and academic activity after breaks related to caregiving.
5. Integrating a gender and diversity perspective into research and teaching
The final key goal concerns research and teaching. The plan assumes that a gender and diversity perspective will be more fully integrated not only into the organizational policies of the University of Warsaw, but also into the knowledge creation process itself.
The plan envisages the development and dissemination of materials for researchers on integrating gender into research, projects, analyses, publications, and grant processes. Training and educational materials, including podcasts, videos, and tutorials, are also planned.