Mediterranean Neuroscience Society Conference
Times are local.
Building resilience to sustain EDI efforts in neuroscience
In a climate of growing challenges such as rising right-wing political movements, equity, diversity & inclusion (EDI) 'fatigue' and skepticism, limited institutional support and resources, and a lack of widespread understanding of underrepresentation and disadvantage, the progress made in promoting and integrating EDI measures in the scientific world is increasingly under threat. This session will offer practical examples of situations where EDI measures have been questioned or undermined, and offer actionable insights and strategies for building resilience, sustaining efforts and avoiding burnout in the pursuit of equity and inclusion.
Speakers will discuss the impact of current political and social climates on the career progression of underrepresented individuals in science and academia, and approaches to mainstream EDI principles into neuroscience education and practice, moving beyond isolated initiatives to drive meaningful, lasting change.
Speakers
- Francesca Cirulli, Centre for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, Instituto Superior di Sanita, Italy - ALBA Network Chair
- Carmen Sandi, Brain Mind Institute, EPFL, Switzerland - ALBA Founder & Chair of Council of Partners
- Shubha Tole, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), India - ALBA Advisor / IBRO President-Elect
Programme
17:30 – 17:40: Welcome and introduction by Francesca Cirulli
17:40 – 18:05: Keynote address – Recalibrating equity: EDI leadership in a time of pushback by Carmen Sandi
18:10 – 18:35: A reply to the keynote – Challenges across borders and contexts by Shubha Tole
18:40 – 19:00: Audience engagement and open discussion
Recalibrating equity: EDI leadership in a time of pushback
Over the past decade, we have made real progress in building awareness and action around Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in neuroscience. Many institutions have taken meaningful steps, recognizing that EDI is not just about fairness, but essential for better science. We have started to shift the culture, understanding that merit is not something pure and objective, but deeply shaped by context, opportunity, and access. But now, this progress is under threat. In the U.S. we are seeing aggressive rollbacks of EDI initiatives and open intimidation of those who speak up. This creates a climate of fear. And fear is contagious. As with other social “contagions” like rising obesity or vaccine hesitancy, backlash can spread rapidly across borders, stalling or reversing change elsewhere. In neuroscience, this would be a serious loss. Diverse teams ask better questions. Inclusive environments foster creativity, belonging, and trust. When we silence voices or step back from defending EDI, we don’t just risk equity, we risk excellence. Yet many who once led these conversations are going quiet, understandably trying to protect themselves from professional or political blowback. The danger is that, in this silence, only the voices of opposition remain. The narrative shifts. EDI becomes framed as ideology, not necessity. And slowly, our shared sense of what is right, what makes science better, starts to erode. So what can we do? Keep talking. Create visible support networks, and reinforcing ALBA Network’s actions and presence. Recognize EDI work as scientific work. Protect and amplify those still willing to speak out. Resilience here is not about staying positive; it is about staying present. In doing so, we will keep our science strong and our communities worth building.
This event is part of the 10th Mediterranean Neuroscience Society Conference (7-11 June 2025 - Chania, Crete, Greece).
This event is organised with the support of the International Brain Research Organization, a founding partner of the ALBA Network.
