Equality Plans in Andalusian Universities: Professional Promotion Policies

Abstract

In recent decades, Equality Plans have played a pivotal role in promoting substantive gender equality in academia, particularly in terms of professional advancement and the reduction in gender gaps. Despite notable progress, structural inequalities persist in restricting access, retention, and equitable career development in higher education. This study examines the Equality Plans of nine Andalusian public universities, identifying the key pillars, measures, and actions explicitly targeting professional promotion. Employing a qualitative approach and content analysis, the study assesses both the progress made and the challenges that persist in implementing these policies. The findings indicate that, over the course of a decade of developing equality strategies, universities have adopted and implemented plans that have generated significant initiatives to advance gender equality. Nevertheless, notable disparities remain concerning the updating, terminology, structure, and, particularly, the scope of the measures implemented. This article highlights the need to strengthen assessment strategies and broaden the scope of intervention in Equality Plans to ensure equitable and sustainable career advancement within the Andalusian university system, offering a transferable framework for promoting gender equality in other higher education contexts.