#SDG5 and the Role of Language: One step closer to Understanding Gender Imbalance in Academia

Activiteit: Academic presentationAcademic

Description

This talk lays bare and explores the causes of a startling discrepancy: that in the modern (Dutch) academic landscape, despite strong representation of women at early career stages, the metaphorical pipeline begins to leak considerably as we move up the institutional ladder. I will zoom in on some of the root causes that have been found to lead to the underrepresentation of women, from systemic biases to work-life balance and the unsustainable targets of performance measures. At the heart of my discussion, however, is the fundamental role language and communication play in sustaining this status quo. Importantly, I will also examine how changes in language and discourse can drive us closer to the long-term goal of true gender equality (#SDG5). Based on recent cases of newly introduced language policies, we will be able to draw inspiration from but also develop cautious awareness about how gender quotas, diversity programmes and policies translate to actual organisational change. I conclude my talk with examples underscoring the potential of language as an agent of change.
Periode30-okt.-2023
EvenementstitelWomen in Science (WISE) Eindhoven Network Annual event
EvenementstypeConference
Mate van erkenningNational