Striving for Gender Parity in the European Energy Sector by 2050

This policy paper discusses the challenges and necessary strategies for achieving gender parity in the energy industry by 2050, focusing on the representation of women and the effects of various structural, national, and organizational factors. Despite increasing educational achievements and workforce participation among women, gender stereotypes, the nature of industry roles, and ineffective corporate gender equality measures continue to impede significant progress. The policy paper, commissioned by the European Commission Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, suggests that achieving parity by 2050 is unlikely without substantial changes in policy and corporate practices. It proposes a multifaceted approach involving educational reforms, proactive corporate diversity management, and robust policy interventions. These strategies include promoting inclusive childcare, professional mentoring, flexible work arrangements, and gender-sensitive educational curricula to foster an equitable environment in the energy sector.