Celebrating women in science: Breaking barriers for a sustainable future

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated on 11 February, highlights the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. This year, the focus is on "Women in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability," recognising their contribution to tackling global challenges such as health and climate change. The diversity in research, brought by women, brings fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity, essential for sustainable development. 

Despite progress in higher education, women continue to be underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields globally. Notable facts underline the urgency of addressing this imbalance: women constitute approximately 33% of all researchers but only represent 12% of members in national science academies. In emerging fields like artificial intelligence, they account for just 22% of professionals. Women also face disparities in research grants, publication representation, and career advancement opportunities in STEM. 

Gender equality is vital for the United Nations and essential for the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Empowering women and girls in science supports economic growth and equality.  The United Nations has adopted resolutions to ensure women and girls have equal opportunities in science and technology. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science enhances their involvement, furthering gender equality and global empowerment. 

Are you interested in exploring more about gender representation across various fields? Data.europa.eu offers a wide array of datasets providing insights into gender dynamics in different sectors. These resources are invaluable for understanding gender equality challenges and progress within diverse professional and academic areas. 

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