Promoting pluralistic education in European universities to combat invisible discrimination related to LGBTQ+

The project had three main objectives. First, to define a common European framework of transversal competences for “unbiased citizens” in HE, linked to literacy, stereotypes and prejudice, interse...

The project had three main objectives. First, to define a common European framework of transversal competences for “unbiased citizens” in HE, linked to literacy, stereotypes and prejudice, intersectionality, societies and communication. Second, to design and pilot a blended training pathway for students and staff, combining online modules, international virtual collaboration and in-presence activities focused on invisible homophobia and pluralistic citizenship. Third, to translate the lessons learned into institutional guidelines, action plans and a Memorandum of Understanding among partner universities, ensuring that anti-discrimination and plurality become structural components of HE strategies, governance and third-mission activities beyond the project lifetime.

The partnership of four universities and one non-formal education organisation implemented activities in four main strands. First, research and consultation led to the co-creation of a competence framework and an implicit online test on invisible homophobia. Second, partners developed a multilingual digital platform and a MOOC with nine modules, 30 video pills, four e-texts and supporting materials, delivered through national trainings, COIL activities and a short-term mobility in Siena. Third, the consortium designed institutional guidelines and four five-year Action Plans to embed plurality into university policies and services. Finally, an international conference, national events, continuous dissemination and quality assurance ensured wide engagement, validation and visibility of all results.

The project produced several tangible outputs and wider changes. It delivered a validated framework of transversal competences and a multilingual implicit test, used both for awareness-raising and research. The digital platform hosts an open MOOC and resources that reached hundreds of learners and over ten thousand visitors. A comprehensive HEIs’ Vademecum, four institutional Action Plans and a shared Memorandum of Understanding now guide long-term strategies for inclusive governance and communication in each university. Students and staff reported increased awareness, skills and readiness to act against discrimination. At institutional and European level, PRECIOUS created a stable community of practice among HEIs committed to building pluralistic, unbiased academic environments.