To take meaningful steps toward inclusive progress in research, it is imperative to challenge the traditional systems and norms that perpetuate inequality. What practical strategies can address the ongoing challenges of gender inequality in research? How can traditional evaluation methods be reformed to foster a more inclusive research environment? On November 27 2024, MINDtheGEPs and Elsevier co-hosted an Open Forum roundtable titled ”Equality in Focus: Steps Towards Inclusive Progress.” This event brought together diverse stakeholders, including academics, research leaders, and advocates for gender equality, to discuss systemic barriers and explore practical strategies for fostering inclusivity in research. The Open Forum featured insights from the Elsevier 2024 Gender Report, presented by Ylann Schemm, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility and Executive Director of The Elsevier Foundation. A distinguished panel of speakers shared their perspectives on how to address challenges and drive systemic change. This report synthesizes the key conclusions and recommendations from the discussion, followed by a summary of the panellists’ key contributions. Panellists: Silvia Penati, Professor of Theoretical Physics, University of Milano-Bicocca, and Chair of CoARA’s TIER group. Marina Calloni, Professor of Social and Political Philosophy, and Director of the research center Against Domestic Violence (ADV), University of Milano-Bicocca. Ylann Schemm, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility and Executive Director of The Elsevier Foundation. Angela Balzano, Researcher in Sociology of Law, University of Turin, and MINDtheGEPs Trainer. Moderator: Max Voegler, Vice President for Global Strategic Networks (DACH), Elsevier.