History of Athena Swan
From 2005, over two decades, the Equality Charters have evolved and grown in their reach across equality issues, institutions and geographies. We are now delighted to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Athena Swan and the 10th anniversary of the Race Equality Charter (REC).
Athena Swan was initially established to advance the careers of women in STEMM and, in response to the sector's needs, the charters have evolved to encompass gender equality more broadly, and race equality through the REC.
In the UK, applicants have grown to include specialist institutions and research institutes, as well as universities, and professional, technical and operational directorates, as well as academic departments.
Uptake of Athena Swan
By March 2025, there were 132 UK members of Athena Swan and 111 members of the REC, including 11 Small Specialist Institutions and Research Institutes (SSI/RI) participating in a REC Pilot. A total of 1,046 awards have been conferred.
There were also nationally recognised Charters across several countries outside the UK - including Ireland, Australia, Canada, US, and a pilot underway in Cyprus - with over 220 members collectively. That’s more than 350 institutions using or who have adapted one or more of the AdvanceHE Charters as a key framework for their work to promote inclusive campuses where everybody has the opportunity to thrive.