We know that a different society is possible and we have ideas on how to get there. - Yvonne Benschop (Radboud University)

This powerful statement from Professor Yvonne Benschop perfectly encapsulates the spirit and conclusions of the first part of our INSPIRE Knowledge Exchange Event, held on 10 October at the Jagiellonian University. The event brought together around 70 participants—gender equality experts, researchers, and practitioners from across Europe and beyond, including Latin America—for a day of exchange, reflection, and inspiration.

Setting the Stage for Knowledge Exchange

The day began with a warm welcome from Ewa Krzaklewska and representatives of the Jagiellonian University, followed by an introduction to the INSPIRE mission by our coordinator, Rachel Palmen. This set the tone for an event rooted in collaboration and action.

One of the highlights of the morning was the panel discussion on tackling resistance and sustaining change, moderated by Anna Knapińska, a longtime friend of the project. The session featured thought-provoking keynote addresses from distinguished speakers:

• Prof. Mieke Verloo (Radboud University), who spoke about anti-gender movements as attacks on democracy—and what we can do to counter them.
• Dr. Graciela Morgade (University of Buenos Aires), who explored cooperation between Europe and Latin America in advancing gender equality, and the mutual lessons that can be drawn from these experiences.
• Katerina Svickova (European Commission), who provided insights into policy perspectives and the importance of translating accumulated gender equality knowledge into institutional practice.
• Dr. Yvonne Benschop (Radboud University), who reflected on how to sustain change in the turbulent times we live in.

The panel was followed by a dynamic discussion with the audience, underscoring a key message that resonated throughout the day: while we are witnessing democratic erosion and increasing resistance to equality, there is a vital need for concerted action, cooperation across regions and sectors, and an unapologetic feminist response. INSPIRE stands firmly behind this objective.

Spotlight on Communities of Practice

• The event also celebrated one of INSPIRE’s core strengths: its 12 Communities of Practice (CoPs), which unite experts and practitioners from prestigious institutions across Europe and beyond. Each Community of Practice focuses on a specific theme—such as sustaining change, widening participation, intersectionality, and innovation—to drive systemic transformation and advance inclusive, intersectional gender equality.

During the event, representatives of the CoPs took the floor to share their ongoing research, milestones, and visions for the future. Their presentations showcased the diversity and depth of the work being done within the INSPIRE network, and reaffirmed the importance of collective learning and shared commitment to social change. We were delighted to hear from:

• Sara Clavero (TU Dublin), representing SuSTEM
• Blas Fernández (FLACSO Argentina), representing the Latin America CoP
• Martina Primorac (University of Zagreb), representing UNIGEM
• Anna Grędzińska (University of Warsaw), representing WIGE 
• Diogo Parente and Mirelur González Oronoz (University of Deusto), representing Intersectionality for Change
• Ana Zamorano and Beatriz Pérez (Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia), representing OpenEU
• Monika Ryndzionek (University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn), representing the RFOs CoP
• Annabell Moser and Ella Fegitz (University of Southern Denmark), representing GAIA
• Anastasia Zabaniotou (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki), representing RMEIM Social Lab
• David Kintero Thokora (TZE), representing the Innovation CoP

Co-Creating Knowledge in Practice

The afternoon of the event was devoted to interactive group work and discussions. Participants joined breakout sessions on topics such as resistance, social justice, the role of actors in developing intersectional strategies for change, and inclusive gendered innovations.

These sessions created space for participants to share experiences, good practices, challenges, and bottom-up initiatives that sustain change in the face of adversity. The exchange of ideas and insights demonstrated the power of collaboration and mutual learning in strengthening gender equality efforts across diverse contexts.

A Shared Commitment to the Future

If only we could have a Knowledge Exchange Event every month! While that may not be feasible, the energy and inspiration that emerged from this gathering will certainly fuel our ongoing work. The event reminded us that real progress comes from coming together—sharing experiences, building alliances, and envisioning new pathways toward equality.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us, contributed their perspectives, and helped make this day so meaningful. Together, we continue to prove that a different, more inclusive society is not just possible—it is within our reach.