The University of Montpellier has been awarded dual certification for “Gender Equality in the Workplace” and “Diversity”

[Press Release] - Published on January 21, 2025 in Press Room, Environmental Issues and Social Responsibility

The University of Montpellier (UM) is the first university to receive certification for both “Gender Equality in the Workplace” and “Diversity” following an external audit conducted by AFNOR Certification. This dual certification covers all academic departments, schools, and institutes, as well as the University’s central and shared administrative offices and services. This marks another step toward strengthening and promoting the culture of equality and diversity championed by the institution.

A long-term commitment to equality and diversity

Developing a genuine culture rooted in the values of equality and diversity is not merely a matter of meeting regulatory requirements; above all, it means going beyond them and making inclusion a central pillar that permeates the entire institution. This dual accreditation marks another milestone achieved by the University as part of a commitment to continuous improvement aimed at promoting responsible and exemplary practices. By being the first university to obtain these two certifications, UM positions itself at the forefront of professional equality and diversity in higher education.

Concrete actions and a forward-thinking policy to support equality, diversity, and inclusion

The University of Montpellier organizes numerous events each year to combat all forms of discrimination, such as “Donner des Elles à l’UM,” awareness days addressing violence against women and LGBTphobia, as well as initiatives to combat racism and antisemitism. All of these initiatives are part of the institution’s various strategic documents, such as the gender equality plan, the disability policy, and the workplace quality of life plan.

This dual “Equality and Diversity” certification reflects the University’s and its community’s ongoing, in-depth efforts. This long-term commitment has also been recognized in the THE Impact Rankings, where UM ranks^first among French institutions and^67th globally in terms of reducing inequalities—and with the award of the European HRS4R (European Human Resources Strategy for Researchers) label, a testament to its commitment to meeting international standards in human resources.