Manuela Schwesig, Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth


Dear WoCaNet visitors,

Women are smart, women are innovative, women are highly qualified. Why do we even have to mention this? Because, everywhere, where clever, innovative, well-qualified people make decisions, take on leadership roles and have power, women are still in the minority. This is also the case in management floors of universities, scientific institutions and research societies.

One prior goal of the German government is to aim greater gender equality in all areas. An important step towards this goal is the law of equal participation of women and men in leading positions in the private and public sector ? the quota, highly anticipated and discussed, will come. Furthermore, it is planned to extend the part-time and temporary law to ensure equal opportunities for women.

It is equally important for women to become active themselves. To get ahead, to demand their rights, and to support each other, networks are indispensable. Therefore, events like WoCaNet offer a great opportunity and are at the same time a platform for exchange and information. I am sending my warmest greetings to Göttingen to the Women's Careers and Networks symposium and hope your symposium will again become a great success: with many participants, interesting talks, fascinating discussions, and intense contacts, which will help you in the future.

With best regards,

Manuela Schwesig