6th edition of the Erasmus+ Military Gender Studies Seminar with the topic: “Good Practices and Role Models – Military Gender Challenges”

Between April 3-4, 2025, the 6th edition of the Erasmus+ Military Gender Studies Seminar was held at “Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy in Brașov, with the topic: “Good Practices and Role Models – Military Gender Challenges”. This event brought together military leaders, academics, and professionals across Europe to explore gender issues in the military, share best practices, and highlight role models shaping the future of gender equality in defense and security

The first day began with the official opening, delivered by prominent figures from the military and academic fields:

BrigGen (AF) Assoc. Prof. Marius ȘERBESZKI, PhD, Commandant (Rector) of “Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy, welcomed the participants and presented the objectives of the seminar.

Colonel Manuela-Elena MIHAI, National Focal Point on Women, Peace, and Security, provided a comprehensive vision on the importance of gender equality in military operations.

Colonel Assoc. Prof. Nevena ATANASOVA-KRASTEVA, PhD, from “Vasil Levski” National Military University in Bulgaria,, emphasized the significance of integrating gender perspectives into military training.

Assist Prof. Sofia MENEZES, PhD, from the Portuguese Military Academy, joined online, offering a unique international perspective.

Colonel Prof Habil. Adrian LESENCIUC, PhD, Vice-rector for Science at “Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy, provided valuable insights into the academic collaboration necessary to advance gender initiatives in defense.

LTC Simona MAIEREAN, from the Air Force Staff, spoke about the evolving role of women in aviation and defense.

LTC Ana-Maria GRANDEL, Commander of the 1st CIMIC Battalion/Land Forces Staff, highlighted the challenges and achievements of integrating women into peacekeeping operations and military domain.

LTC Anca ARON, from the Naval Forces Staff, shared her experiences regarding gender inclusion in naval operations.

Colonel(ret.) Paulo MACHADO, from Portugal, provided perspectives on ongoing efforts to diversify gender in military environments, joining online.

The day also included two interesting workshops:

One coordinated by Colonel Manuela-Elena MIHAI, focusing on the national campaign “She for Romania,” aimed at empowering female cadets and encouraging their active participation in the military.

The second, facilitated by Colonel Assoc prof. Nevena ATANASOVA-KRASTEVA, PhD, from “Vasil Levski” National Military University, Bulgaria, discussed the module “Gender Perspectives in Security and Defense,” promoting discussions on the impact of gender dynamics on military training and operations.

The second day continued with valuable discussions and information:

Workshops coordinated by Colonel Conf. Nevena ATANASOVA-KRASTEVA, PhD, focused on best practices and role models in gender training for future officers, exploring strategies for successful implementation.

Another workshop, led by Maj. Andreea MUNTEAN, Gender Representative of “Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy, provided lessons learned and statistics on gender integration and its impact on military effectiveness.

The event aimed to recognize and emphasize the essential role of women in defense and security – not only as participants but also as leaders, strategists, and change promoters.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•