EPWS: An example of an umbrella network and of cooperation between women scientists across Europe

We wish to show in this contribution that equality is not yet reached between female and male scientists in Europe: thus improving the situation of women scientists in the European Member States requires the join efforts both of the European Commision and the women scientists themselves, in particular through EPWS which federates their networks and associations. After an historical overview of European Union (EU) policies in favor of women scientists during the last fifteen years, we list various initiatives taken by EU in this field. We then explain the missions and activities of the non-profit international association European Platform of Women Scientists (EPWS) and how it brings the voice of 12.00 women scientists in Europe to the level of European institution in a complementary way.