Eleni Glykatzis-Arbelér, a prolific and active public intellectual, has consistently made headlines with her thoughts and insights throughout her long life. Her intent was never solely to intervene in public discourse; rather, her authority and clarity were sufficient for her words to resonate widely. In recent interviews, she shared her personal reflections on her career and the societal expectations she encountered, particularly regarding her gender.

In her explorations of how her life might have differed had she remained in Greece, Arbelér candidly stated that she would likely have been relegated to a lesser position, like an assistant professor. She highlighted the entrenched gender bias she faced even in France, where men dominated academic roles. A particularly telling anecdote involves a visit from the Algerian president, where the then-French President Mitterrand introduced her as “the first woman” to hold a significant leadership position in Paris’s academic institutions, underscoring the broader struggle women face in asserting their place in academia.

Arbelér's statements reflect a larger commentary on gender inequality and the societal structures that influence women's roles in education and leadership. Her journey illustrates the challenges women continue to confront in these domains, emphasizing the ongoing need for advocacy and change in perceptions regarding gender in academia and beyond.