The number of female professors in the Netherlands increased slightly over the past year. However, the national target of 30 percent female professors is unlikely to be met next year.
This year, for the first time, the target is reached in University Medical Centers (UMCs), where female professors make up 31.6 percent. At Dutch universities overall, 28.7 percent of professors are women, a growth of 1.1 percentage points from last year.
The current growth rate suggests gender parity among professors won’t be achieved until 2044, according to a report from the Dutch Network of Women Professors (LNVH). The LNVH notes that women’s representation declines at higher academic levels, despite women comprising over half of students and graduates.
A decline is particularly observed after the lecturer level, which had 46.9 percent women last year. Thirteen out of fourteen universities reported an increase in female professors, except Erasmus University, which saw a 0.2 percent decrease.
Additionally, women now hold 48.4 percent of university board positions. Notably, Erasmus University became the first Dutch university with an all-female board as of November 1, 2023.
The report highlights an ongoing trend of male professors aged 60 and above retiring, which, along with a well-stocked talent pool, presents promising future opportunities. Nevertheless, the LNVH warns of “dark clouds” due to planned budget cuts of 1 billion euros in higher education and research, threatening diversity and gender equality efforts.
Women in precarious positions are particularly vulnerable.
Source: NOS