Gender equality initiatives in Italian companies: a study of the life sciences sector

Promoting gender equality is not just a matter of fairness; it is an essential driver of diverse perspectives that are decisive for innovation, and inclusive economic growth. This study aims to comprehensively examine gender equality measures within Italian life sciences companies, focusing on progress, challenges, and the impact of supportive policies. The main goal is to recognize the significance of empowering individuals regardless of gender, and to contribute insights for sustainable and equitable workplaces. An ad hoc questionnaire was distributed to human resources professionals across pharmaceutical, medical device, biotechnology, and nutraceutical industries in Italy. Statistical analysis, including the creation of a novel indicator considering gender quotas and policies supporting women, was conducted to provide quantitative insights into the effectiveness of gender equality initiatives. Employing a statistical indicator based on the adoption of gender quotas provides valuable insights into the inclination toward gender equality within Italian life sciences companies. Furthermore, transparency in compensation policies emerges as a critical factor in fostering gender equality initiatives. We observed that organizational size, measured by both the number of employees and turnover, proves to be a determining factor influencing companies' inclination towards gender equality. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of gender equality efforts, emphasizing the significance of transparency and organizational characteristics in creating inclusive workplaces. Such insights contribute to the ongoing discourse on gender equality and inform strategies for promoting diversity and inclusivity within the life sciences sector in Italy.