As part of Parthenope Women’s Week 2026, the conference “Women and Substantial Equality: Historical Achievements and Cultural Barriers” took place on 10 March 2026 at Palazzo Pacanowski (Room 1.1), at Parthenope University of Naples. The initiative focused on women’s rights and the persistent social, cultural and legal challenges that continue to shape the path towards full equality.
The Women equality Parthenope event opened with institutional greetings from Concetta Metallo, Vice President of the Committee for Equal Opportunities (CUG), who underlined the importance of strengthening institutional commitment to gender equality within both academic and public spheres.
Institutional voices and legal perspectives
The conference was introduced by Gioia Melillo, a student of the Department of Law (DIG), and moderated by Valeria Capuano, Professor of European Union Law at Parthenope University of Naples. The discussion brought together prominent figures from the legal and judicial sectors, offering a multifaceted perspective on substantive equality:
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Rosaria Covelli, President of the Court of Appeal of Naples, reflected on the evolution of women’s rights within the judicial system.
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Domenico Airoma, Public Prosecutor of North Naples, addressed the legal frameworks and enforcement challenges related to gender equality.
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Angela Del Vecchio, President of the Bar Association of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, examined the role of the legal profession in safeguarding women’s rights.
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Elisabetta Garzo, Trusted Advisor of Parthenope University of Naples and former President of the Court of Naples, highlighted institutional responsibilities in promoting fairness and inclusion.
Advancing substantive equality through dialogue
The Women equality Parthenope conference provided an important platform for dialogue on the concept of substantive equality, emphasising not only formal legal rights but also the real conditions necessary for women to fully exercise them. Speakers discussed how cultural barriers and societal norms continue to hinder progress, despite significant historical achievements.
The initiative formed part of the wider Parthenope Women’s Week programme, aimed at raising awareness and fostering critical reflection within the academic community. It reaffirmed the role of Parthenope University of Naples as a space for informed debate and civic engagement on key societal issues.
Further information and resources
Learn more about gender equality policies: https://commission.europa.eu
Explore international women’s rights initiatives: https://www.unwomen.org
Discover more activities at Parthenope University of Naples: https://www.uniparthenope.it
