Promoting cultural and institutional changes aimed at increasing gender equality is one of today’s priorities of the European research, funding and education policies, but at the same time a common practice at universities and research institutions abroad. Gender equality is one of the core values of the Czech Republic (as also enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Human Rights and Freedoms).
That is also why the University of Pardubice promotes such values and international standards. The University of Pardubice recognizes that non-discrimination and equal opportunities of men and women are instrumental for its further sustainable development as a university and research institution recognized internationally.
Unfortunately, many gender inequalities continue to exist in the Czech society, and admittedly also at the University of Pardubice, without receiving much attention; this often results from the belief that everything is essentially fine and not much attention is needed, often due to derogatory views arguing that it is not necessary to account for and promote equal opportunities for men and women based on lack of understanding, prejudices and socio-cultural stereotypes. Such a situation is evidenced by the fact that the Czech Republic has below-average ranking for gender equality in many international and European rankings.
Gender equality, i.e. equal opportunities for men and women in terms of career growth, teaching and research and essentially in all university activities, services and the university life in general, is enshrined in the Strategic Plan 2021+ as one of the priorities: “People are most important for the high-standard and sustainable development of the university.”
People are our most valuable thing. We want all our employees, be they males or females, so instrumental to all the activities of the university and its parts, to able able to engage in professional development depending on their individual abilities and expertise, and to work on their career growth and contribute to the diverse mission of our university, which is part of the international research and university community.
It is a challenge for the university to make maximum use of the professional and skills potential and experience of the people for the benefit of the institution and the services it offers, but at the same time to guarantee their professional and personal well-being and work-life balance.
Drawing on international and national standards, the University Gender Equality Strategy 2022-2025 defines 5 priority areas for improvement in the upcoming years. It is not only our objective, but also our task to systematically, on a long-term and open basis, strengthen and promote:
- gender equality in careers, work-life balance for all employees and a gender-sensitive culture in the organisation;
- gender balance in decision-making processes and bodies (with more prominent involvement of women);
- gender equality in recruitment and career development to be competitive internationally and to be able to offer competitive working conditions;
development of individuals in line with the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers of the European Commission; - integration of the gender dimension into the content of its own research and innovation and training process to contribute to the development of knowledge society and implementation of new topics and approaches on our research and training activities;
- last but not least, preventive measures against non-discrimination and gender-based violence.
To study the University Gender Equality Strategy in more detail, see here:
Gender Equality Strategy| University of Pardubice
If you wish to get involved in discussion about gender equality and contribute to the achievement of the objectives and implementation of the activities to build a well-balanced working environment for all irrespective of gender, age, ethnic, national or social origin, religion or faith, sexual orientation, language, disability, political beliefs, social and economic conditions, please contact the HR team (Jana Janková, HR Manager, extension: 6518, Mgr. et Mgr. Veronika Lacinová Najmanová, Social Security Coordinator, veronika.lacinovanajmanova@upce.cz).
“Gender equality is a core value of the EU, a fundamental right [1] and key principle of the European Pillar of Social Rights[2]. It is a reflection of who we are. It is also an essential condition for an innovative, competitive and thriving European economy. In business, politics and society as a whole, we can only reach our full potential if we use all of our talent and diversity.”
Brussels, 5. 3. 2020, Towards a Gender-Equal Europe
A Union of Equality: Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025
Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions
Gender Equality Strategy 2021-2030 of the Government of the Czech Republic is available here.
doc. Ing. Liběna Černohorská, Ph.D.
Vice-Rector for Internal Affairs
[1] See Articles 2 and 3(3) TEU, Articles 8, 10, 19 and 157 TFEU and Articles 21 and 23 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights
[2] The European Pillar of Social Rights in 20 principles - Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion - European Commission (europa.eu)
