Today, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the UN International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This is a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made—and the challenges that remain for women in this field. Established in 2015, this day was meant to recognize and uplift women and girls pursuing careers in science. Yet, despite a decade passing, obstacles persist.
Women currently make up about one-third of researchers worldwide, a figure that hasn’t changed much over the years. As they climb the career ladder, their numbers decrease significantly. For example, women hold just 12% of seats in national science academies globally. Interestingly, the level of a country’s wealth does not necessarily relate to its success in achieving gender equality in science.
Representation varies greatly by region. South Asia has the lowest percentage of women researchers, with only 23%. Southeast Asia sits at 27%, Central Asia at 47%, sub-Saharan Africa at 32%, the European Union at 34%, and Latin America and the Caribbean at 44%.
In the European Union, we see some promising advancements. In 2023, women comprised 52% of the 78.3 million people employed in science and technology, a 2.9% increase from the previous year and a 25% rise since 2013. Many of these women work in service-related roles, and in countries like Lithuania and Latvia, they make up about 63% of the workforce in these sectors. Yet in Italy, the numbers are below 50%.
Gender imbalances in science also depend on the specific field. For instance, physics tends to attract more men, while life sciences often have a balanced or even female-majority ratio. However, in fields like engineering and computer science, women are significantly underrepresented. In artificial intelligence, a vital area shaping our future, only 22% of professionals are women.
So why are women still facing these barriers in science? The reasons are complex and include several critical factors.
Gender Stereotypes
Deeply ingrained stereotypes play a significant role in limiting women’s involvement in science. From a young age, girls are often subtly discouraged from pursuing studies in math and engineering. These fields are commonly viewed as “masculine,” which can deter girls from having an interest in them. Both conscious and unconscious biases can also undermine women’s confidence, making it harder for them to advance in their careers.
The lack of visible female role models in science perpetuates this issue. When girls don’t see women succeeding in scientific fields, it’s tougher for them to imagine themselves in those roles. This lack of representation also affects those women already working in science, as they may miss out on essential mentorship opportunities.
Educational Barriers
Education is a fundamental hurdle. Girls often have limited access to the resources that could inspire a love for science and technology. Many places still lack schools focused on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and mentorship programs. Additionally, socioeconomic challenges can significantly limit girls’ access to quality education. Even those who show interest in science may not receive the support they need to continue pursuing it.
Workplace Challenges
For women who earn STEM degrees, the road ahead can still be daunting. Many find workplace environments unwelcoming due to gender discrimination, unequal pay, and lack of networking opportunities. Studies show that women in scientific jobs often feel isolated and lack mentorship, impacting their career growth and job satisfaction.
Lack of Leadership Representation
Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles within scientific organizations. This absence results in slower progress on gender equality initiatives. Without women in decision-making positions, critical issues like pay gaps and workplace support may not be prioritized.
Looking Ahead
As women make up about 40% of the global labor force, it’s essential for businesses and institutions to address these challenges. Women are crucial for innovation in science and technology. Implementing fair practices, ensuring equal pay, and promoting training programs can create a thriving environment for women.
Educational reforms that promote inclusivity will help challenge stereotypes early on. When schools, universities, and workplaces actively support women and girls, the entire scientific community benefits.
The journey toward gender equality in science is long and challenging, but it’s essential for a future where everyone can contribute their talents to solve the world’s most pressing issues.
This article offers a general overview of the topic. For specific advice tailored to individual circumstances, please consult an expert.
