The Women of Europe Awards are organised by the European Movement International with the support of the European Women’s Lobby, building upon the national awards of several National European Movement Councils.
The tenth edition of the awards took place on Thursday, 4 December 2025 in Brussels.
The Women of Europe Awards were launched in 2016 to highlight the contribution of women in promoting and advancing European issues and to increase the involvement of women in debates about Europe and its future. While the role of women in the European project remains largely unrecognised, the awards aim to acknowledge and showcase their inspiring initiatives which lend a voice to women across Europe and defend European values such as democracy, inclusion and diversity.
The Awards are handed out in 6 different categories:
Woman in Power | showing extraordinary political leadership in Europe
Woman in Action | undertaking extraordinary actions at the grassroots level in Europe
Woman in Business | advancing European integration with entrepreneurial spirit
Young Woman of Europe | for young women (age 15 to 30) actively strengthening the voice of young women in Europe
Woman in Media | outstanding women in media who possess a powerful voice, actively bringing attention to European issues
Woman in STEM | for achievements in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics while advancing European progress
Candidates are nominated by member organisations of the European Movement International and European Women’s Lobby, with the winners selected over two rounds of voting by the jury.
MEET THE JURY
The jury of the awards noted:
“More and more courageous, creative and compassionate women are succeeding as European leaders and changemakers, inspiring other women to step forward with confidence and ambition. The Women of Europe Awards celebrate all these women!”
— Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, Director-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture, European Commission
“In challenging times, the Women of Europe Awards gain renewed importance. They celebrate women’s leadership and resilience while reminding us that progress is never guaranteed. By honouring champions of equality and dignity, they inspire hope for a more just and inclusive future.”
— Georgia Mourad Brooks, Founder, The Nine
“Advancing women’s equality is advancing democracy itself. The Women of Europe Awards highlight women’s leadership and make visible the progress that belongs to all of society.”
— Lina Gálvez, Member of the European Parliament, S&D
Henna Virkkunen | Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen received the award for her leadership in ensuring Europe’s security, democratic resilience, and digital sovereignty, including her work on major legislative initiatives in AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies and cloud infrastructure. The esteemed jury also highlighted her commitment to equality in the digital economy and her public engagement in making complex policy accessible to all.
“We need the creativity and ideas of young women, and they should feel confident that they can achieve anything. It matters that we support one another and keep encouraging the next generation to step forward. I am ready to do my part. This award is an honour and a reminder of that responsibility, and I am truly grateful”, said Executive Vice-President Virkkunen in her acceptance speech.
WOMAN IN ACTION
Francesca Albanese | United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories
Ms. Albanese is recognised for documenting human rights violations by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories. In a video message, Ms. Albanese said: “Thank you all. Thank you to those who believe in standing for human rights, equality and justice. This honour strengthens my resolve to continue this work with courage, solidarity and unwavering dedication.”
WOMAN IN BUSINESS
Aino Bergius | CEO, SLUSH
Ms. Bergius is celebrated for her leadership as CEO of SLUSH and for promoting diversity in Europe’s start-up and investment ecosystem.
YOUNG WOMAN OF EUROPE
Romina Pourmokhtari | Minister for the Environment of Sweden; Former President, Liberal Youth of Sweden
Ms. Pourmokhtari is acknowledged for her leadership as Sweden’s Minister for the Environment and for championing youth participation and democratic engagement.
Ms. Ishchenko is honoured for strengthening Ukrainian independent media and countering disinformation during Russia’s full-scale invasion.
WOMAN IN STEM
Dr Alessandra Sala | Senior Director of AI and Data Science, Shutterstock; President, Women in AI
Dr. Sala was awarded the first-ever Woman in STEM Award, introduced this year to recognise women’s exceptional contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, for her work supporting women and minorities in becoming AI experts, innovators, and leaders, while advocating for AI systems that align with human rights and democratic values.
Marta Kos | European Commissioner for Enlargement Roxana Mînzatu | Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness
WOMAN IN ACTION
My Voice, My Choice | Europe-wide Activist Movement for Reproductive Rights Margarida Medina Martins | President, Associação de Mulheres contra a Violência (AMCV)
