EFA25 World of Women*
The European Forum Alpbach (EFA) values diverse voices. A healthy democracy must reflect all perspectives, which is why EFA actively encourages non-male contributors in both its programming and participation.
Shaping a More Inclusive Future
Women* remain underrepresented in many areas of public life, and no society can thrive when half its population is excluded. Feminism has long highlighted this imbalance, and it’s up to us to act. While the European Forum Alpbach (EFA) has a rich history of dialogue, feminist perspectives were largely absent until 1986.
From 2023 to 2025, our World of Women (WoW*) initiative aims to amplify women’s* visibility at EFA. We believe tackling today’s major crises – climate change, threats to democracy, economic sustainability, and global security – requires contributions from all genders.
WoW* also fosters professional networking for women* at Alpbach. Spearheaded by women* from the EFA Board, Council, Network, and partner organizations, the initiative ensures gender parity in every session and encourages women* to speak up and lead.
In addition to sessions at the EFA, we also organise WoW* events year-round as part of our EFA365 initiative, such as the event "AI Forward: Shaping the Future".
Supporting Female* Talent in STEM and Leadership
The gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) remains a major challenge across Europe. At the European Forum Alpbach, we’re working to close that gap by actively inviting emerging female* talents to join the conversation and shape the future.
In 2024, we introduced the opportunity for scholarship holders to join the Women in STEM focus group, welcoming young, female* talents under 30 with a background in STEM to take part in the annual Forum. For those aged 30 to 40, the Alpbach in Motion leadership lab provides a space to connect, innovate, and grow as leaders. Women* are especially encouraged to apply. In addition, our main event continues to highlight and support female* voices from all sectors and age groups.
Tracking Progress: Gender Representation at the EFA
To ensure transparency and accountability, we’re tracking and publishing gender data related to participation at EFA. In 2024, the numbers showed meaningful progress:
- 55% of scholarship holders were female*
- 51% of contributors (e.g. speakers, moderators) were female*
- 43% of all other participants identified as female*
These numbers reflect our commitment to gender parity, and our belief that diverse perspectives drive better outcomes.
Sessions at the EFA25
WoW* Connect Sessions
Every day, from the Europe in the World Days to the Austria in Europe Days, two dedicated hours will be hosted by women* engaged in EFA’s broader network, which offers the opportunity to connect, reflect, and act.
Executive Talk | Supported by Zukunft.Frauen Alumnae Club
Permanent crises, pressure, and digital transformation are redefining leadership. How can leaders remain strong, foster innovation, and steer their organisations toward the future? Insights from a survey of 400 top executives reveal which skills matter today – and where true energy and new ideas really come from.
Peace, Women & Money | Hosted by Female Founders
This session brings together influential voices from policy, finance, and entrepreneurship to address a critical and timely question: How will Europe’s future transform, when women control more capital? At a time of mounting geopolitical instability and economic transition, increasing women’s access to and control over capital is not just a matter of equity – it is a pathway to democratic resilience, sustainable development, and inclusive innovation across Europe and beyond.
Attendance by invite only.
Recharge Austria
The "Women Economic Summit 2025" will focus on Austria's innovative strength, strengthening our resilience and finding sustainable answers to the challenges of global competition – how can we strengthen Austria and Europe to seize these changes as opportunities?
Join our top female managers in discussing how we can change perspectives, identify potential, and define new positioning opportunities for Austria.
Please note that the session will be held in German.
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