Abstract
Gender equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Greece constitutes a complex struggle, influenced by historical, cultural, socio-political, and economic factors.
Drawing from social movement theory, gender mainstreaming and Communities of Practice (CoPs), we offer insights on how organising through CoPs may offer a platform for EDI practitioners to build solidarity, cope with resistances and the increased emotional labor they face in challenging times, facilitate the exchange of localized, context-specific knowledge and develop tailored strategies to achieve institutional change.
We discuss the cross-organisational (CoP) composed of representatives of the 24 Gender Equality Committees (GECs) established in each Greek University and demonstrate how the CoP approach empowered GECs, enabling them to address challenges and implement GE initiatives at the national/institutional level while highlighting CoPs' potential to drive policy reform and sector-wide change, positioning them as critical mechanisms for institutional transformation beyond individual organisational efforts.