The University of Salerno' First Gender Equality Plan

The paper traces the roots at the heart of the Gender Equality Plan promoted by the University of Salerno (UNISA) in the framework of the European Project R&I PEERS pilot experiences for improving gender equality in research organisations. The implication of UNISA in gender policies goes back to 1999, with the establishment of the first Equal Opportunities Committee. Starting from that milestone, the paper traces the main steps of a gender policy that has aimed at increasing a sensitive culture against gender discriminations, understanding and knowledge about gender inequality, among the entire academic community. Likewise, the paper discusses how the insights emerged from focus groups and interviews regarding the perception of gender disparities within the university, supported the definition and arrangement of the actions and strategies of the Gender Equality Plan.