The European University Association (EUA) and the European University Continuing Education Network (EUCEN) supported by the European Students’ Union (ESU) launched a new project on Strategies towards Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Universities: INVITED | Strategies for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Universities 
 
Background 
As our societies change and become more diverse, universities are asked to be more open and inclusive. In Europe, increased migration has contributed to more cultural diversity – and more awareness on the topic. Social diversity and inequality are hotly debated in the wake of the economic crisis, ongoing globalisation and accelerated labour market changes. At the same time gender equality continues to be an issue in several areas. Also, universities need to find ways to enable participation of people from various backgrounds, including those that are traditionally less represented in higher education. Politically the topic is gaining importance with ministers reiterating their commitment at the 2018 Bologna Ministerial Conference in Paris to strengthen the social dimension of higher education and further national strategies. 
 
The project
Against the backdrop of these developments, the INVITED project aimed at supporting universities in developing and implementing institutional level strategies towards equity, diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, it seeked to facilitate a dialogue between relevant stakeholders at system level with a view to ensure appropriate regulatory and funding frameworks that enable universities to fulfil their social responsibility. 
 
The project hosted its final event in Brussels, 3 March 2020, where the results of the survey were presented and a number of panels discussed the core issues of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at HEIs level.

The final report is accessible via the following link.