The conference „Women in Forestry: Connecting across Borders and Generations“ was held April 22-23rd, 2026 in Graz in Austria. The conference brought together over 130 participants from 17 countries across Europe, Africa and Asia. The aim was to exchange knowledge, strengthen networks and develop shared perspectives – thereby empowering women in forestry and raising their profile.

The conference was organised by the Fem2Forests project team, co-funded by the Interreg Danube Region Programme, and held in collaboration with WOFO – Women in Forestry International, Forstfrauen and IUFRO – International Union of Forest Research Organizations.

In terms of content, the conference covered a wide range of topics, from international trends in forest policy to project outcomes, initiatives and examples of best practice, right through to practical applications.

Dialogue and Strategy

The first day of the conference featured expert presentations, discussions and round-table sessions focusing on the issues that will significantly shape the future of the forestry sector:

– key challenges for women in forestry

– professional development and career paths for women in the forestry sector

– mentoring as a tool for empowerment, networking and knowledge transfer

– motivating young women to enter forestry professions

– gender perspectives and the inclusive development of the forestry sector

– strengthening international networks and cooperation

Insights into the Styrian forestry and timber industry

The second day introduced participants to the Styrian forestry and timber industry and impressively demonstrated the roles women play there – as skilled workers, forest owners, managers and leaders.

The focus was on:

– sustainable forest management and forestry in the context of climate change

– innovative wood processing

– nature conservation and biodiversity

– the role of female forest owners and managers

Key message of the conference:

The future of forestry is inclusive and collaborative. The challenges of our time can only be overcome through diversity, cooperation and shared knowledge. Projects such as Fem2Forests provide important impetus for sustainable change. Women play a crucial role – as professionals, leaders, researchers, forest owners and role models.