The EPWS Annual Conference 2025, “Empowering Women Scientists: 20 Years of EPWS and the Road Ahead”, took place in Brussels on 20–21 November 2025 and was a highly successful and well-attended event. Representatives of EPWS member associations and numerous individual members came together for two inspiring days of discussion, reflection, and exchange.

Meeting face-to-face again was particularly meaningful. While the COVID period helped us remain connected online, the conference clearly demonstrated how essential human contact is for strengthening our community.

The opening session conveyed greetings and best wishes from former Presidents Adelheid Ehmke and Brigitte Mühlenbruch, and included a heartfelt remembrance of Claudine Hermann, former President of EPWS, as well as former Board members Ann Marks and Anna Lobo, who are no longer with us.

Marking 20 years of EPWS activity, the conference highlighted the significant progress achieved for women in science, supported also by European policies that EPWS has helped to promote. At the same time, European statistics remind that much work remains to be done and that existing achievements must be protected.

The invited speakers included representatives of the European Union and leading scientists from different disciplines. In a special session, member associations presented their activities and shared ideas for the future of EPWS, renewing motivation and enthusiasm and reinforcing the Platform’s mission as the voice of European women in science, in Europe and beyond.

Speakers’ profiles and the programme can be downloaded here.