WiTaR in Focus: Advancing Research and Pre-Standardisation Synergies in Emerging Technologies

Bridging the gap between research and standardisation is vital to shape Europe’s evolving landscape of connectivity. This year at Techritory Forum, two 6G-IA Working Groups – Women in Telecommunications and Research (WiTaR), together with the Pre-Standardisation Working Group – will explore how to build a stronger, more inclusive pipeline from R&D to standards in the emerging 6G landscape. This effort is co-ordinated with efforts from SNS JU funded project SNS CO-OP.

Gender equality in research and innovation has seen gradual improvements, with Horizon Europe reaching 45% women evaluators and over 51% women in expert and advisory groups. However, persistent gaps remain: women make up just 31% of Horizon Europe project coordinators and 38% of researchers, with sharp declines in representation at senior levels. In industry-driven areas such as telecommunications, women remain underrepresented in both research roles and leadership positions, especially within standardisation bodies (as stated in this report).

This session highlights the importance of addressing these imbalances, not only to meet EU values of inclusion and equality but also to ensure that the technology in making reflects the diversity of Europe’s society. Inclusive standardisation is essential for equitable access, ethical design, and the sustainability of 6G networks.

Join us as we bring together researchers, standardization experts, and diversity advocates to share insights, identify gaps, and chart a collaborative path forward.

We welcome:

• Women in contributing in research and standartisation;
• Researchers and innovators active in the SNS community;
• Policymakers and forward-thinkers striving to embed inclusivity in next-generation technology frameworks.

Preliminary agenda:
Introduction to WiTaR and Current Status – 10 min
Overview of WiTaR’s working item, outcomes to date, and strategic relevance.
Speaker: Pooja Mohnani, Project Manager, Eurescom

Introduction to Pre-Standardisation Working Group & Status – 10 min
Framing the WG’s actions, outcomes and next steps.
Speaker: Veronica Vutto, Communication, Dissemination & Outreach Specialist, Trust-IT Services (Pre-Standardisation Working Group Co-Chair)

Expert Insights: Driving Impact in Research and Standardization – 30 min
Two experts present case studies and perspectives:

• Talk 1: Role of Inclusion & Diversity in ETF: Challenges and Opportunities
  Speaker: Rute C. Sofia, leader of the European Task Force on 5G+/6G (5G+/6G-ETF)
• Talk 2: Inclusion in Standardisation: Lessons from Past Frameworks
  Speaker: Prachi Sachdeva (TNO)

Panel Discussion: Women in Standardisation – Challenges & Opportunities – 25 min

(Moderated by Uwe Herzog, Program manager, Eurescom)
A moderated dialogue exploring:

• Synergies between research and standard-setting
• Current barriers to inclusive collaboration
• Pathways for stakeholder alignment

Wrap-Up & Next Steps – 10 min
(Pooja Mohnani, Project Manager, Eurescom)
Synthesis of key takeaways and future actions.