This brief explores how gender equality can be more effectively integrated into EU-funded marine conservation research. Drawing on a mid-term reflection exercise within the Horizon Europe Blue4all project, it examines perceptions of gender, identifies gaps in existing research activities, and outlines opportunities for more gender-responsive approaches. It also presents lessons from applying a gender equity lens in research at the Capo Gallo-Isola delle Femmine Marine Protected Area in Sicily. The findings provide practical recommendations for strengthening gender considerations in marine protected area governance and wider EU research and innovation projects.
