Despite strides in gender equality, women remain underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) – a glaring truth that lies in the heart of scientific progress.
As 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS) on February 11, the conversation surrounding female participation in these fields has never been more relevant.
The occasion also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, a critical framework for gender equality worldwide. Both milestones serve as a call to action: the future of innovation depends on the inclusion of diverse minds.
A PERSISTENT GAP
Globally, only one in three scientists is a woman. The gender imbalance is particularly evident in leadership positions and fields like artificial intelligence and engineering, where women are vastly outnumbered. This disparity is not simply about statistics as it has real-world consequences.
With men dominating technological advancements, bias seeps into algorithms and research, shaping a world that fails to fully represent half its population.
Furthermore, the lack of female participation in STEM limits solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues, from climate change and food security to medical advancements.
Studies have repeatedly shown that diverse teams produce more effective and innovative results. To continue side-lining women in scientific research is to weaken the very foundation of human progress.
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has underscored the significance of gender equality in science, stating, “The more that women are excluded from STEM, the more we limit our collective power to address urgent global challenges, from climate change and food security to public health and technological transformation.”
He emphasised that women’s participation is “essential for building a better world through science and technology”.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Guterres shared, “I saw that enormous potential first-hand when I was teaching engineering, and I saw the remarkable talent, creativity, and determination of countless women scientists.”
However, he acknowledged that challenges persist: “Women still represent just one-third of the global scientific community. Deprived of adequate funding, publishing opportunities, and leadership positions in universities, women and girls continue to face an uphill battle in building careers in STEM.”
WHY THE DIVIDE PERSISTS
The barriers keeping women from entering and excelling in STEM are deeply rooted in societal structures. Gender stereotypes continue to shape expectations from an early age, with young girls less likely to be encouraged towards careers in science.
A shortage of visible female role models further reinforces the belief that STEM belongs to men.
Even those who break through initial barriers face obstacles in career progression, with limited funding opportunities and biases in research publishing.
Workplace environments also play a critical role. Many women in scientific fields report a lack of mentorship, fewer promotions, and even experiences of discrimination or harassment. Without systemic changes, these challenges will continue to discourage talented minds from fully engaging in the scientific community.
A ROADMAP FOR CHANGE
While the challenges are significant, progress is within reach. The United Nations has identified several key areas that require action to close the gender gap in science. These include increasing scholarships, internships, and mentorship programmes tailored for women and girls in STEM.
By investing in early education and outreach, young girls can be introduced to scientific careers in a way that sparks curiosity and confidence.
Furthermore, creating workplace policies that attract and retain women in scientific fields is crucial. Equitable pay structures, flexible working arrangements, and transparent promotion criteria can make a significant difference.
Institutions must also take steps to eliminate gender bias in research funding, ensuring that female scientists have the same opportunities as their male counterparts.
Guterres has urged stakeholders to “expand scholarships, internships, and mentorship opportunities to open doors for women and girls in STEM; create workplaces that attract, retain, and advance women in science; encourage girls’ engagement in STEM from an early age; champion women leaders in science through the media; and dismantle gender stereotypes.”
THE ROLE OF POLICY AND GLOBAL INITIATIVES
The Pact for the Future, agreed upon by UN Member States, has reaffirmed commitments to dismantling barriers that prevent women and girls from accessing STEM careers.
UNESCO’s Call to Action further strengthens this momentum by urging policymakers, educational institutions, and the private sector to actively support women in science. These initiatives highlight the importance of a global, collaborative approach in ensuring gender equality in STEM. One of the most effective ways to inspire future generations of female scientists is through representation. Celebrating and elevating the achievements of women in STEM sends a powerful message: the world of science is for everyone.
Media and educational institutions play a key role in this shift, from featuring more women in science textbooks to highlighting their breakthroughs in mainstream narratives.
Organisations and governments can also help by establishing mentorship programmes that connect young girls with accomplished female scientists. Exposure to role models who have navigated the challenges of STEM careers can provide the motivation needed to pursue similar paths.
A FUTURE WITHOUT LIMITS
More work remains to be done. However, the progress made over the years offers hope. By continuing to challenge stereotypes, advocate for policy changes, and celebrate female achievements in STEM, a future where women stand on equal footing in science is not just possible, but inevitable.
The push for gender equality in science both about fairness and about strengthening global innovation and ensuring that all of humanity benefits from diverse perspectives.
As the 10th anniversary of IDWGS unfolds, let it serve as a renewed commitment to breaking barriers and opening doors. The world cannot afford to ignore the potential that lies in its women and girls. Science, and indeed society, will be all the richer for their contributions. – Izah Azahari
