Diversity and Inclusion
At EMA, you’ll find a workplace that values who you are and supports who you want to become.
We believe embracing different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences makes us stronger, more innovative, and better equipped to protect the health of every individual and animal in the European Union.
We’re committed to ensuring equal treatment and opportunities for all, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or belief.
We deserve to thrive
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Everyone deserves to thrive in a workplace that respects and celebrates who they are. Emer Cooke, Executive Director of EMA |
I enjoy working in a diverse workplace like EMA, together with such a broad spectrum of people, with different ways of thinking on how to find solutions. Having a neurodivergent perspective brings different approaches to projects which is very much valued. For me, EMA is a very welcoming organisation with colleagues who are open to broaden their minds and accept everybody as they are.
Maria
Respect is paramount in any relationship, whether personal or professional. Regardless of a person’s background, race, gender, ethnicity, the same level of respect should be given to everyone. My manager, my team and my colleagues value my contributions: appreciation, recognition and praise come in different forms - verbally, in writing, with a smile, or even a simple hug.
Enrico
I certainly do feel a sense of belonging and I’m incredibly proud to work for EMA. I feel I can be truly myself, I feel I can be authentic. And the fact that in this organisation everyone can be themselves, and even is encouraged to be themselves, that's the greatest support you can receive.
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We come from different cultures
The annual EMA Day of Culture showcases the many nationalities that make up our agency, with colleagues sharing food, stories and traditions from across Europe and beyond. This event celebrates the rich diversity of our staff and the enthusiasm for cultural exchange across the organisation.
We also take time to reflect and learn. Events such as Black History Month highlight voices from the arts, politics and academia, while Rare Disease Month raises awareness and funds through activities like our agency-wide charity race.
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We have a vibrant LGBTQI+ community
Our LGBTQI+ Friends events bring together colleagues, locals and allies in Amsterdam, creating community, visibility and a true sense of belonging. LGBTQI+ staff have long enjoyed the solid support of the wider EMA community.
That commitment runs deep: during EMA’s 2017 relocation from London, over half of staff signed a letter from the LGBTQI+ community to EU leaders highlighting risks to fundamental partnership rights. As a result, LGBTQI+-friendly criteria helped shape the choice of EMA’s new home.
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We care about health
Our Invisible Health talk series encourages openness by giving colleagues a platform to share their personal stories, and ultimately raising awareness of struggles and needs amongst colleagues, making us all more empathetic.
For Rare Disease Day, EMA organized the Health Run to raise awareness of rare diseases. This year’s edition took place on 28 February 2025 and was held alongside a fundraiser for Krajowe Forum Orphan, a Polish nonprofit supporting people affected by rare conditions.
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We support women
What’s more, EMA founded the European Agencies Network for Women’s Support, creating a safe space for women and allies. By supporting and strengthening women working in all EU agencies, we strive to show how gender diversity and inclusion enrich organisations.
Today there are over 380 women and allies representing this Network across the EU institutions.
