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Faculty of Education, University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
Sustainable social development cannot exist without dismantling structural discrimination. This keynote bridges the gap between high-impact educational research and the implementation of anti-racist public policies, offering a transformative perspective on social inclusion. Grounded in a profound academic and institutional career—including roles at the University of Barcelona and leadership in governmental non-discrimination initiatives in Catalonia—the presentation focuses on the educational and social success of historically excluded demographics, primarily the Roma community and other racialized populations. By analyzing over a decade of international evidence-based research, the session highlights the role of transformative social interventions that reject deficit models. Attendees will explore community-driven paradigms—from raising university access for underrepresented groups to redefining community health and overcoming anti-Gypsyism. Aligning with STED’s multidisciplinary mission, this speech will challenge scholars in education, law, sociology, and health sciences to collaboratively develop evidence-based tools that transform political strategies and institutional frameworks. Through the translation of scientific excellence into public action, academia can lead the global effort toward genuine equality and social justice.
educational research, public policy, anti-racist transformations, community empowerment, social inclusion
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