Sustainable Measures To End gender-based Violence in Academia: What Lies between the ERA Policy Paradigm and Reality?

Gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment (SH) represent phenomena of social concern that relate to issues of gender equality. This qualitative study explored responses to GBV and SH in academia in the context of the European Research Area (ERA) using the 7P Model: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, Provision, Policies, Partnerships, and Prevalence. Interviews were conducted with key experts at Italian universities to identify the discrepancy between the EU policy framework and its practical implementation in the Italian context. Furthermore, it was investigated how cultural and institutional contexts influence this implementation. The results showed entrenched cultural barriers, in which a patronizing system contributes to the minimization of the problem and hinders open discussion and effective action. In addition, insufficient funding, limited expertise, and reliance on individual efforts weaken systemic initiatives. While significant progress has been made, such as the existence of dedicated services and awareness-raising programs, these measures often lack coherence and broad impact. Comprehensive and well-resourced strategies and cross-college collaboration are needed to promote sustainable change. Finally, work on capacity building, consistent application of strategies, and engagement at all academic levels is crucial to bring efforts in line with international standards.