More than one hundred people connected from different European countries, dozens of shared experiences, and one common question about the future of Europe: how can we build societies that are more equal, inclusive, and truly participatory? On May 19, the second Remote Meeting of the “Women Participation for the Future of Europe” (W4Future) project transformed a digital space into an international forum for dialogue among citizens, activists, organizations, and institutional representatives committed to promoting rights, democratic participation, and gender equality.
During the meeting, the project’s White Paper was presented — a document developed through months of dialogue with women and men from Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Bulgaria, Romania, and Denmark. This collective work brings together analyses, experiences, and concrete proposals aimed at strengthening women’s participation in decision-making processes and in European social life.
A special guest at the event was Benedetta Scuderi, Member of the European Parliament and member of the FEMM Committee, who engaged in a discussion with participants on the role of European institutions in shaping more inclusive and gender-sensitive policies.
Following an initial plenary session dedicated to the presentation of the White Paper, participants split into thematic working groups to further explore some of the most urgent issues that emerged throughout the project: education and culture, work and economy, political participation, inclusion and discrimination, safe spaces, and communities.
The working groups fostered an open and participatory exchange in which people from different countries and backgrounds shared personal experiences, critical issues, and operational proposals. At the center of the discussion was a common question: what concrete changes are needed today to make Europe a truly fair, inclusive, and accessible space for everyone?
The activities unfolded through shared readings of the document, collective reflections, and facilitated discussions, with the goal of integrating new ideas and priorities into the final White Paper. Among the topics that emerged most strongly were the fight against structural discrimination, the strengthening of women’s representation in decision-making processes, and the creation of safer and more supportive communities.
The meeting concluded with a public presentation of the working groups’ outcomes and contributions from stakeholders and organizations active in promoting women’s rights across different European countries.
W4Future therefore continues its path toward the participatory development of policy recommendations and shared practices, grounded in the belief that women’s participation is not only a matter of equality, but also an essential condition for Europe’s democratic and social future.
We will keep you updated on the final publication of the White Papers.