International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026; February 11th.

FORUM: "Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls" International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026. Skill gaps are a key constraint to innovation, hindering productivity growth and economic development. In particular, shortages in the supply of trained professionals in disciplines related to Science, Technology, Engineering, andMathematics (STEM) may weaken the innovation potential of a society. A wide gender gap has persisted over the years at all levels of STEM disciplines throughout the world. Although the participation of women in higher education has increased, they are still underrepresented. Follow the hashtags:#February11 ,#EquityInScience, #ScienceSociety, #Finance4Dev, #GirlsInScience, #WomenInScience.

EVENTS: High-level Events entitled "Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls". The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) celebrates the 11th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly, taking place on February 11th, 2026 in at the ECOSOC Chamber, UN Headquarters in New York. Following the adoption of Resolution A/RES/70/212 on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, RASIT continues to work with UN Member States, InterGovernmental Organizations and the UN and its entities to achieve equality in science, technology, and innovation for socio-economic sustainable development in line with the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs. The 11th IDWGIS is co-sponsored by the Permanent Missions of Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Chile, Cyprus, Greece, Kenya, Kuwait, Malta, Moldova, Romania, San Marino, and Viet Nam to the United Nations, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), UN Women, World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), and Pan-African Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation for Africa. The 11th Assembly is aligned with the 2026 ECOSOC and HLPF theme “Transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for a sustainable future for all”. To support achieving the three pillars of sustainable development, namely economic prosperity, social justice, and environmental integrity, the 11th Assembly will bring together women in science and experts from around the world, highlevel government officials, representatives of international organizations and the private sector to discuss the Goals to undergo in-depth review during the HLPF: Goals 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 9 (Industry Innovation and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) , and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The 11th IDWGIS is theme “Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls”. As societies grapple with widening inequalities, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), social science, STEM and finance emerges as a 4-pillar approach to accelerate inclusive sustainable development: 

• AI offers powerful tools for data analytics, health diagnostics, climate modelling and more, but its benefits risk bypassing women and girls without targeted interventions. 

• Social science insights guide the design of equitable policies, community engagement and behavioral change strategies that ensure STEM and AI innovations reach marginalized groups. 

• STEM disciplines furnish the technical skills required to develop, implement and maintain AI solutions, while fostering gender-balanced research teams.

• Finance mechanisms, impact investing, blended finance and gender-smart funds, unlock capital to scale women-led innovations and sustainably fund STEM education and R&D. 

Synergizing these four domains can dismantle persistent barriers: closing gender gaps in digital skills, catalyzing women-driven startups, informing gender-responsive AI governance, and mobilizing finance that embeds social inclusion as a performance metric.

Get the Concept Note and Watch the livestream!

The objectives of the 11th IDWGIS Assembly are: 

1. Convene experts to showcase best practices at the intersection of AI, social science,STEM and finance for women’s empowerment.

2. Identify policy and regulatory levers to foster gender-equitable AI development and data governance. 

3. Highlight scalable financing models that support women-led STEM  initiatives and AI startups. 

4. Inclusion of women in science and experts with disabilities as agents for change. 

5. Engage youth and community leaders in co-designing inclusive technology roadmaps. 

6. Develop an outcome declaration with actionable recommendations for Member States, UN agencies, academia and the private sector.

 The Assembly’s Thematic Streams: 

• Integrate the SDG targets most relevant to women and science within each goal. 

• Highlight cross-cutting issues such as digital inclusion, climate resilience, and ethics in AI. 

• Add measurable output (i.e., number of participants, case studies, policy commitments) to strengthen accountability. 

• Include gender-disaggregated data in AI and STEM  discussions, aligning with the UN Data Strategy. • Add mention of ethics and data governance (AI bias, algorithmic transparency...) under the regulatory levers’ objective. 

• Link with the UN Secretary-General’s Our Common Agenda and the Summit of the Future (2024–2026) outcomes to ensure policy relevance. The Assembly’s Format and Methodology • Plenary opening with high-level remarks

 • Three thematic panels with policymakers, academic, and industry speakers 

• Plenary Closing with Adoption of the “Outcome Declaration on Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance” 

Expected Outcomes of the 11th IDWGIS Assembly 

• Policy brief summarizing evidence, case studies and regulatory recommendations • Financing toolkit for STEM-responsive impact investors and development banks • Introducing RASIT and women-led AI/STEM innovations with scalability assessments • Female Youth manifesto outlining priorities for future research and entrepreneurship support.

High-level Events

LIVESTREAM: 

PART I - Watch the (Part 1) 11th International Day of Women & Girls in Science Assembly!

PART II

International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025; February 11th.

FORUM: “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science.“ International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025. Science in the 21st century is dynamic, collaborative and diverse, serving as a powerful tool for engaging with the world and tackling global challenges. Today, a background in science opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities that extend well beyond traditional laboratory professions. Moreover, the profiles of scientists are far more varied than the conventional stereotypes suggest. From a gender perspective, pioneers like Marie Curie have demonstrated that women can shape and lead scientific disciplines, but her legacy as one of the few widely recognized female figures in science highlights the urgent need for greater progress. Therefore, this important anniversary for the IDWGS aims to reflect the expansive reach of science and celebrate the contributions of women in science worldwide. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #11February, #WomeninScience; #GirlsinScience.

EVENTS: At UNESCO Headquarters, to mark the 2025 IDWGS celebration, a special hybrid event will take place on Tuesday, 11 February; 2025 at UNESCO Headquarters under the theme: “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science”. The IDWGS’ 10th anniversary will bring together Member States, early-career and accomplished scientists, stakeholders from the public and private sectors, UNESCO scientific networks and Chairs, journalists, as well as students. Explore the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science sessions!

Afternoon session (2.00 pm – 5.30 pm): Building on the UNESCO Call to Action “Closing the Gender Gap in Science”, we will explore together the critical role of women in scientific innovation and discuss the need for inclusive media representation to challenge gender stereotypes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers.

Evening session (6.30 pm – 8.30 pm): The celebrations will continue at 6:30 p.m. with the screening of the documentary “Women of Science: These women who change our lives”, directed by Safia Kessas and produced by Iota Production, with the support of the Radio Télévision Belge Francophone (RTBF), the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and the Wallonia-Brussels Federation to UNESCO. Get the agenda programme and the flyer of the event!

Building on the 2024 UNESCO Call to Action “Closing the Gender Gap in Science” and aligned with the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024 – 2033), speakers will explore two key aspects during this unique event:

Roundtable 1) Unpacking STEM Careers: The Power of Diversity and Inclusion in Shaping the Future.
Speakers from diverse backgrounds will share their inspiring journeys in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), reflecting on the paths that led them to their current professional roles and the passion that drives them forward. The discussion will also highlight the critical importance of diverse perspectives, including those of women, in STEM fields, in line with the communication campaign “Imagine a world with more women in science”, launched for this special anniversary with the support of Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The roundtable will emphasize the many opportunities a STEM background can provide and show that every unique journey – while embracing one’s identities – holds the keys to contribute to advancing science and building a more equitable world.


Roundtable 2) Her Voice in Science: Inspiring Change in the Media
The event will also delve into how women in science and the diversity of scientific career pathways can be more effectively represented across various forms of mass media, ranging from traditional press and broadcast media to digital and out-of-home media. Speakers will discuss how representation in the media can enhance public trust and understanding of science, while reshaping societal perceptions of gender roles within the field. Engaging with the audience, they will explore actionable next steps for building a more inclusive scientific community in the long term, where every voice is valued.

Documentary screening
Following the roundtables, the celebrations at UNESCO Headquarters will continue with the screening of the documentary “Women of Science: These women who change our lives” (“Électrons Libres : Ces femmes de science qui changent nos vies” in French), directed by Safia Kessas and produced by Iota Production, with the support of the Radio Télévision Belge Francophone (RTBF), the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and the Wallonia-Brussels Federation to UNESCO. This documentary follows the journeys of six women scientists from across Europe, highlighting their remarkable contributions to the field and the challenges they have overcome along the way.

Expected Outcomes
Through the insights shared by panelists and their interactive engagement with the audience, the event aims to raise awareness about the critical role of women in scientific innovation and the need for inclusive media representation to challenge gender stereotypes in STEM careers. It will also provide a platform for stakeholders to take and support actionable steps in closing the gender gap in science, building on UNESCO’s 2024 Call to Action.

OTHER EVENTS: The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), co-organizing and co-sponsoring Member States, UN Agencies and Intergovernmental Organizations are celebrating the 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly.

AT UNHQ - On February 11th 2025, from 10:00 – 18:00, in the Conference Room 1 (CR-1) at the UN Headquarters will be held an High-level event organized by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), the Permanent Mission of Malta and Co-organized by Permanent Missions of Antigua And Barbuda, Azerbaijan, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Romania, San Marino, Slovenia, as well as the African Union, the League of Arab States, International Telecommunication Union (ITU), World Intellectual Pproperty Organization (WIPO), and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The 10th edition of the International Day of Women & Girls in Science Assembly will bring together women in science leaders and experts from around the world, high-level government officials, representatives of international organizations and the private sector to discuss women leadership in achieving the three pillars of Sustainable Development, namely economic prosperity, social justice, and environmental integrity. Recognizing the role of women and girls in science as agents of change and the importance of mainstreaming a gender perspective in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, the main theme for the 10th IDWGIS Assembly is: "Charting Progress to Shape the Future: The Best is Yet to Come". Get the concept note

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2025; February 11th.

Ten years ago, the first International Day of Women and Girls in Science recognized a fundamental truth: women’s participation is essential for building a better world through science and technology. I saw that enormous potential firsthand when I was teaching engineering, and I saw the remarkable talent, creativity, and determination of countless women scientists.

Yet today, 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 science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Look no further than the development of new digital technologies. Men dominate the field at every level—including in Artificial Intelligence. The result is a surge of biased algorithms and embedded inequality, risking a new era of digital chauvinism.

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.

We can and must do more to level the playing field

By expanding scholarships, internships and mentorship opportunities to open doors for women and girls in STEM; creating workplaces that attract, retain and advance women in science; encouraging girls’ engagement in STEM from an early age; championing women leaders in science through the media; and dismantling gender stereotypes.

The Pact for the Future, agreed last September by Member States, gives renewed momentum to these goals by committing to address barriers preventing the full, equal and meaningful access for women and girls in scientific fields.

On the tenth anniversary of this important day, and as we reflect on 30 years since the Beijing Declaration, let’s help pave a path to STEM careers that women and girls deserve – and our world needs.

António Guterres; United Nations Secretary General.

VIRTUAL EVENTS

Focus on the Ten years of delivery, building up and leading fruitful change.

The delegation of the republic of Malta to the UNESCO and the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), will hold an event to celebrate the 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science, taking place on 11 February 2025 at UN Headquarters in New York.

This high-level event aims to assess challenges and progress toward the implementation of the outcome documents of the International Days of Women and Girls in Science endorsed by member states and inter-governmental organizations, and the role of women in science experts. The event is expected to highlight the role of women and girls in science in solving world challenges, the importance of multilingualism to facilitate the global compilation and application of scientific advancement for sustainable development, as well as the value of investment in science-based solutions for sustainable development. It will also be an opportunity to share best practices and experiences, including successes, challenges, and lessons learned, and the mobilization of partnerships, including:

• Reflection on what has been done for early start programs focused on Equity / Encouragement / Advancement of Girls in STEAM & Education;
• Drafting and implementing science policy, declaration, and relevant strategic frameworks and action plans;
• Representation of women in science in diplomacy, government, parliament, and academia;
• Women in science for economic development;
• The inclusion of people with disabilities in science education and employment;
• facilitate the global compilation and application of scientific advancement for sustainable development;
• Science-based resolutions addressing world challenges including, inter alia, water scarcity, climate action, health, and sustainable culture, where women experts have played a role;
• The implementation of national strategies related to the SDGs by women experts and professionals.

Explore the 2025 IDWGIS Concept Note and Agenda programme.

LIVESTREAM: Celebration of the 10th International Day of Women and Girls in Science at UNESCO and UNHQ.


Watch (Part 1) 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Watch (Part 2) 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

  

 

Women in Science for SDG-3: From Research to Practice - Side event.

This side event aims to enhance women's participation in STEM, integrating medical sciences to improve healthcare outcomes

   

Uplifting Women in STEM 

 

 An astronaut-led panel to highlight the contributions of women and girls in science, and the importance of ensuring that they are safe from gender-based violence and gender discrimination. Get the Conncept note!

 

International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024; February 11th.

FORUM: “Closing the Gender Gap in Science: Accelerating Action.” International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024. Despite the progress made in recent decades, still today only one in three researchers globally is a woman. This persistent gender disparity is the result of the numerous barriers that female scientists continue to face – lack of role models and mentorship programmes, disparities in the quality and accessibility of science education, insufficient professional structures and inadequate workplace cultures, and the glass ceiling phenomenon, all of which can discourage girls from pursuing scientific careers and hinder the progress of women in the field. The following discussions will be held on this occasion

• Roundtable 1 - UNESCO Campus - Fostering Girls’ Interest in Science through Innovative Education in the Digital Age.
• Roundtable 2 - Promoting Empowering Work Environments for Women in Science.
• Roundtable 3 - Inspiring Women and Girls in Science through Role Models and Mentors.

Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #11February, #WomeninScience; #GirlsinScience.

EVENTS: The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), co-organizing and co-sponsoring Member States, UN Agencies and Intergovernmental Organizations are celebrating the 9th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly.

AT UNHQ -The 9th International Day of Women & Girls in Science Assembly will bring together women in science leaders and experts from around the world, high-level government officials, representatives of international organizations and the private sector to discuss women leadership in achieving the three pillars of Sustainable Development, namely economic prosperity, social justice, and environmental integrity. Recognizing the role of women and girls in science as agents of change and the importance of mainstreaming a gender perspective in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, the main theme for the 9th IDWGIS Assembly is: "Women and Girls in Science Leadership – a New Era for Sustainability". Read the Concept Note and Watch the Part 1 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the Part 2 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science and the Part 3 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

AT UNESCO HQ - On Friday, February 9th, from 9.30 a.m.to 5.30 p.m. in the Room II. The UNESCO, in collaboration with L’Association fédérative nationale des étudiantes universitaires scientifiques (AFNEUS), will host a full-day event in celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024. The event will bring together Member States, accomplished and emerging scientists (including the alumnae of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Programme), stakeholders from the public and private sectors, UNESCO scientific networks and Chairs, as well as students. The event will build on the key findings and recommendations that emerged from the UNESCO Global Forum “The Future for Women and Girls in Science” held in June 2023 and the AFNEUS “Women in Science” Congress held in February 2022. In particular, it will provide the multi-stakeholder platform:
- To unveil the UNESCO Call for Action “Closing the gender gap in science” which provides recommendations aimed at tackling the root causes of gender-based inequalities in science. The Call for Action has been developed based on the contributions from a multitude of stakeholders following the Global Forum "The Future for Women and Girls in Science".
- To share valuable insights on initiatives, resources, and best practices to put the Call for Action in practice and to discuss ways and means to make significant progress in key action areas, namely: innovative education, empowering work environments, and role models/mentors.

Get the concept note, agenda programme and the flyer of the event.

WEBCCASTS

• Part 1 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science
• Part 2 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science
• Part 3 - International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024: February 11th.

Gender equality in science is vital for building a better future for all. Unfortunately, women and girls continue to face systemic barriers and biases that prevent them from pursuing careers in science.

This deprives our world of great talent. Today, women make up only one-third of the global scientific community, obtaining less funding, fewer publishing opportunities and fewer senior positions at top universities than men. In some places, women and girls have limited or no access to education – an act of self-harm for the societies concerned, and a terrible violation of human rights.

From climate change to health to artificial intelligence, the equal participation of women and girls in scientific discovery and innovation is the only way to ensure that science works for everyone.

Closing the gender gap requires dismantling gender stereotypes and promoting role models that encourage girls to choose science; developing programmes to support the advancement of women in science; and cultivating a working environment that nurtures the talents of all, including women members of minority communities.

Women and girls belong in science. It is time to recognize that inclusion fosters innovation, and let every woman and girl fulfil her true potential.

António Guterres.

Joint message from the Director-General of UNESCO and the Executive Director of UN Women, on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, 11 February 2024.

At a time of climate change, green transition and the emergence of new technologies, the world needs more science; but science also needs more women.Yet it is at these crucial moments for our future, when scientists are particularly needed, that gender inequalities in science are most keenly felt. According to the latest UNESCO Science Report, women currently make up only a third of scientists and 37% of ocean science professionals. In all scientific fields women face a glass ceiling. We must realize, however, that society as a whole – and not just women – suffers from these inequalities, because fewer scientists also means fewer scientific innovations, fewer medical discoveries and less sustainable development. Therefore, on this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, UNESCO would like to draw the international community’s attention to these profound imbalances and invite it to seize the opportunity offered by the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-2033) to strengthen scientific culture in society by focusing in particular on the training of girls and women.Without delay, and as of now, UNESCO is taking action in the field to promote and recognize the talent of women researchers. One example is our flagship L’Oréal-UNESCO “For Women in Science” Programme. The year 2023, which marked the Programme’s 25th anniversary, was an opportunity to pay tribute to the 127 laureates and 3,900 young scientists from 115 countries whom the L’Oréal-UNESCO Prize "For Women in Science" has promoted since its inception. Among them, two researchers were recently awarded Nobel Prizes: Franco-Swedish physicist Anne L’Huillier, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics, and Hungarian-American biochemist Katalin Karikó, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. UNESCO strongly applauds them both once again. Women’s access to scientific careers, however, starts well upstream, from the first years of schooling. Every day, UNESCO is committed to breaking down stereotypes and self-censorship, boosting girls’ self-confidence and giving them a scientific culture and education from primary and secondary school onwards. This is the aim of our partnership with the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Jamaica: together, we have launched the “UNESCO-UWI Walking in Her Footsteps” mentorship programme in science and technology for Jamaican secondary schoolgirls. In addition, through the Capacity Development for Education Programme (CapEd), we have already trained over 2,000 women teachers in science and gender issues in Burundi, Niger and Uganda.

To conduct its work, UNESCO can also draw on the Recommendation on Open Science, unanimously adopted in November 2021 by our Member States, which underlines the urgent need to make science education more accessible and inclusive, particularly with regard to women. To date, 11 countries have incorporated the principles of this Recommendation into their national science policies. In the same vein, UNESCO is helping 10 countries in Europe, Africa and Latin America to apply the principles of the Recommendation in their laws and scientific and educational policies.

On this International Day, society as a whole must unite in support and appreciation of the women and girls who are breaking the glass ceiling, embarking on scientific careers, and moving the world forward through their research.

International Day for Women and Girls in Science 2023; February 11th.

FORUM: “Innovate. Demonstrate. Elevate. Advance. - Bringing communities Forward for sustainable and equitable development.International Day for Women and Girls in Science 2023.

The 8th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly is organized, for the first time, around a number of fictitious communities that have their main impact on the SDGs reviewed in depth in 2023: SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities). Key stakeholders of these communities will be brought together for a substantive discussion on the means of implementation (SDG17): how to create the enabling environment for accelerated implementation of SDGS 7, 9 and 11, while keeping a continuous focus on SDG6, following up on the in-depth water discussions of the 7th IDWGIS of 2022. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #11February, #WomeninScience; #GirlsinScience.

EVENTS: The Commemoration of International Day for Women and Girls in Science 2023 will be held on February 10th, 2023 - 8:00 am - 10 February 2023 - 1:00 pm at UNESCO in Nairobi, Kenya. The 8th Assembly aims to bridge between the International Community and women in science through linking their knowledge and expertise and its applications in a systematic, critical way for the 2030 agenda and its 17 global goals. The Assembly is bringing forward women in science, youth, experts, and professionals together with multi-stakeholder in dialogues and discussion for identifying conditions and tools to put Science, Technology, and Innovation at the heart of sustainable development programs, international relations, and public and private sectors strategies and implementation plans. The 8th Assembly aims to assist policymakers – at all levels whether in public or private sectors - to evolving a more mature relationship between science, policy, and society for strategies that they can commit to for the future. Read the concept note.

STATEMENTS

• - Message from the U.N. Secretary- General on International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2023; February 11th.



On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we highlight a simple equation: More women and girls in science equals better science.

Women and girls bring diversity to research, expand the pool of science professionals, and provide fresh perspectives to science and technology, benefiting everyone.

There is growing evidence that gender bias in science is leading to worse outcomes, from drug tests that treat the female body as an aberration, to search algorithms that perpetuate bias and discrimination.

Yet in too many places around the world, women and girls’ access to education is limited or denied completely.

As women look to progress in scientific careers, inequalities and discrimination continue to thwart their potential.

Women make up under a third of the workforce across science, technology, engineering, and maths and even less in cutting edge fields. Just one in five professionals working on Artificial Intelligence is a woman.

We must – and we can – do more to promote women and girl scientists:

Through scholarships, internships, and training programmes that provide a platform to succeed.

Through quotas, retention incentives, and mentorship programmes that help women overcome entrenched hurdles and build a career.

And crucially, by affirming women’s rights and breaking down stereotypes, biases, and structural barriers.

We can all do our part to unleash our world’s enormous untapped talent – starting with filling classrooms, laboratories, and boardrooms with women scientists.

U.N.Secretary-General.

• -Message from Ms Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, 11 February 2023.

• Science is many things: a study of natural, physical and social phenomena; a process to test hypotheses and draw conclusions; a journey of discovery to understand the world’s many mysteries. But what science should be is equitable, diverse and inclusive. It should be for all and open to all, especially women. Today, just one in three researchers is a woman, according to the latest UNESCO Science Report. In higher education, women represent just over 35 per cent of graduates in STEM-related fields, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics. If these gender inequalities are so significant, it is because they are deeply rooted in our societies. It is because of the persistence of gender stereotypes and prejudices, which sometimes persuade girls that scientific studies are not for them, despite their tremendous potential.At UNESCO, where we work to build peace in the minds of men and women, addressing these stereotypes is a priority – because more women in science means better science. This conviction underpins all our work in this domain, and is enshrined in our Recommendation on Open Science, adopted by all our Member States in 2021.This vigilance is all the more necessary at a time when equal access to education can never be taken for granted – as we saw recently, when women in Afghanistan were brutally deprived of their right to learn and teach, including in higher education. UNESCO condemns this violation of a fundamental right and calls for it to be restored without delay.Today, all around the world, UNESCO is working to foster environments that encourage girls and women to study scientific topics – for example by supporting a scientific mentorship programme in East Africa. To date, it has reached 11 million students, especially girls. UNESCO also seeks to break down stereotypes, by raising awareness of women scientists who are blazing new trails. Through our 25-year partnership with the L’Oréal Foundation, we have honoured over 120 exceptional women scientists from around the world, five of whom have also received the Nobel Prize. As role models, they are examples for young women to follow – underlining that they too can achieve excellence. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let’s reiterate this fundamental message: women need science, and science needs women. Only by tapping into all sources of knowledge, all sources of talent, can we unlock the full potential of science, and rise to the challenges of our time.

• UNESCO Director-General.

• 
  

• -Message from the Executive Director of UN Women, on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science; 11 February 2023.

EVENT

WEBINARS

The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), and co-organizing Member States are celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS), on 10 February 2023 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This will be the 8th Assembly, pursuant to the adoption of Resolution A/RES/70/212 on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, on December 22, 2015, aimed at promoting equality in science, technology, and innovation for socio-economic sustainable development, in line with the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs.

The 8th Assembly is co organized by the Permanent Missions of Chile, Lebanon, Malta, Poland, Portugal, the Philippines, Rwanda, Slovakia, and Spain to the United Nations and co sponsored by the Permanent Missions of Andorra, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Finland, France, Georgia, Honduras, Hungary, Kenya, the Maldives, Romania, Republic of Korea, San Marino, Slovenia, Tajikistan Tanzania and Turkiye to the United Nations, as well as the African Union the League of Arab States United Nations Conference on Trade and Development UNCTAD the International Telecommunication Union ITU United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO and the World Intellectual Property Organization WIPO.

This year, the IDWGIS will focus on the role of Women and Girls and Science as relates to the SDGs in review at the forthcoming High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), namely SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG17 (means of implementation), while following up on discussions on water held during from the “Water Unites Us” 7th IDWGIS, the 2nd High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development 2018-2022, held in Dushanbe, and the 2nd UN Ocean Conference and its High-Level Symposium on Water held in Lisbon, as a contribution for the 2023 UN Water Conference, and other UN Fora.

In doing so the IDWGIS aims to connect the International Community to Women and Girls in Science, strengthening the ties between science, policy, and society for strategies oriented towards the future. The IDWGIS will thus showcase best practices, strategies, applied solutions in addressing SDGs challenges and opportunities. It will also include for the first time a science workshop for Blind Girls and a session from the BLIND fellow SCIENTISTS on “Science in Braille: Making Science Accessible”.

The 8th Assembly of the IDWGIS will feature two high-level panels and four interactive conversations with distinguished representatives from governments, inter-governmental organization, the private sector, academia, and our fellow blind and deaf scientists. The voice of Girls in Science 4 SDGs International Platform and youth will be present in every conversation.

In Panel Discussion 1, participants will engage in interactive discussions, respectively focusing on: (i) sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11); (ii) transportation and logistics (SDG 7); (iii) business and industry (SDG 9); and, (iv) a space for sustainable development, with a focus on SDG 6. SDG6 and SDG17 will be addressed in a cross-cutting manner. A Cansu SITE representative will provide the water lens in each conversation. Additionally, relevant experts will be invited to offer their input on SDG17, as well as on financing sustainable solutions. Finally, in fulfilment of RASIT’s mission of bringing everyone forward, the importance of multilingualism will also be highlighted.

In Panel Discussion 2, RASIT and UN Member States, departments and agencies will celebrate the 8th anniversary of the #February11 Global Movement through a high-level panel entitled “Think Science. Think Peace”.

CONVERSATIONS & PANEL DISCUSSIONS

PANEL 1: Equipping Communities for Sustainable and Equitable Development.

• Conversation I: Transforming Cities and Infrastructure for Sustainable Future.
• Conversation II: The Road to Sustainable Transport.
• Conversation III: Food Business & Industry Communities: Securing Sustainability.
• Conversation IV: Breaking Boundaries: Space Community - I.D.E.A.S. for Sustainable Development.
• PARALLEL SESSIONS - Transform Science Education: Accessible Sustainability.

PANEL 2: Bringing Everyone Forward.

• Conversation V: Making Science Accessible. A Conversation with Renowned BLIND Scientists.
• CLOSING CEREMONY 
• RECEPTION “Think Science .. Think Peace”. 

International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2022, 11 February

FORUM: “Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Water Unites Us.” International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2022.

Concept Note and Agenda.

PANEL DISCUSSION I: High-Level Panel on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: The human rights-based approach.

1. Women in Science for Water and Society: Bridging Voices to Action - Conversation I
2. Reviving Peace Through Science-Based Water Diplomacy - Conversation II

Moving the Water Conversation Forward

PANEL DISCUSSION II: High-Level Panel on Investing in Water for Sustainable Development

1. Re-Shaping Water Economics for Inclusive Green Growth - Conversation I
2. Financing Innovative Science- and Green Technology- Based water solutions and programs - Conversation II

Closing ceremony.

CAMPAIGN: Promoting Women in Science to Reach Our Full Potential.

 The 7th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly.

The 7th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly , taking place on 11 February 2022, in virtual format from UN Headquarters in New York, aims to recognize the role of women and girls in science, not only as beneficiaries, but also as agents of change, including in view of accelerating progress towards the achievement of SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). 

The 7th Assembly will bring together women in science and experts from around the world, high-level government officials, representatives of international organizations and the private sector to discuss the water nexus in achieving the three pillars of sustainable development, namely economic prosperity, social justice, and environmental integrity.

 It will showcase best practices, strategies, applied solutions, and experiences in addressing the SDG6 challenges and opportunities through the Cansu Global Media Room. It will also feature, for the first time, a unique Ebru Water Art Performance to celebrate the 7th Anniversary of the #February11 Global Movement.

Statement by the U.N. Secretary-General on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, 11 February 2022.

Today, only one in three science and engineering researchers in the world is a woman.

Structural and societal barriers prevent women and girls from entering and advancing in science.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further increased gender inequalities, from school closures to a rise in violence and a greater burden of care in the home.

This inequality is depriving our world of enormous untapped talent and innovation. We need women’s perspectives to make sure science and technology work for everyone.

We can – and must – take action.

With policies that fill classrooms with girls studying technology, physics, engineering, math.

With targeted measures to ensure opportunities for women to grow and lead at laboratories, research institutions and universities.

With determination to end discrimination and stereotypes about women in science.

And with more rigorous efforts to expand opportunities for women members of minority communities.

All of this is especially important in the crucial field of artificial intelligence.

There is a direct connection between low levels of women working in AI, and absurd gender biased algorithms that treat men as standard and women as an exception.

We need more women developing artificial intelligence that serves everyone and works for gender equality.

We also need to reverse trends that keep young women scientists from pursuing careers that help us address the climate and environmental crises.

I taught engineering. I know from personal experience that young women and men are equally capable and equally fascinated by science, brimming with ideas, and ready to carry our world forward.

We must ensure that they have access to the same learning and work opportunities on a level playing field.

On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I call on everyone to create an environment where women can realize their true potential and today’s girls become tomorrow’s leading scientists and innovators, shaping a fair and sustainable future for all.

António Guterres.

Joint message from Ms Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO and Ms. Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, 11 February 2022, Promoting Women in Science to Reach Our Full Potential


The major challenges the world faces today, from COVID-19 to climate change, need our brightest scientific minds to solve them. However, only one in three scientists is a woman. This glaring disparity does not just hamstring our ability to find solutions to our common challenges, it keeps us from building the societies we need. And the disparity is systemic. Women also remain underrepresented among senior scientists in academia. According to the 2021 UNESCO Science Report, they are awarded less research funding than men, and are less likely to be promoted. In the private sector too, women are less present in company leadership and in technical roles in tech industries. The lack of equal opportunities in the workplace is driving women out of research professions. We must put the principle of equality into action so that science works for women, because it works against them all too often – for example, when algorithms perpetuate the biases of their programmers. Despite a labour shortage in this field, studies have shown that women account for just 22% of professionals working in artificial intelligenceand 28% of engineering graduates. And when they found their own start-ups, women receive less than 3% of total venture capital compared to men.However, more generally speaking, we need to provide more opportunities in science and innovation to women. That is why UNESCO and UN Women strive to get girls into science education, and to ensure their rightful place in these professions and industries. Last year, the Generation Equality Forum launched the Action Coalition on Technology and Innovation for Gender Equality. Its aim is to double the proportion of women working in technology and innovation by 2026 and ensure that women and girls participate fully in finding solutions to the large, complex and interdisciplinary problems we face. Doing that requires positive remedies for increased representation, as well a constant vigilance to uproot long-standing discrimination and unconscious bias. We are already seeing how working together across the public and private sectors and across generations can bring about positive change, such as by eliminating gender stereotypes in education and putting policies in place to attract and support women
scientists in the workforce.Science derives from the universal curiosity that makes us human, asking the questions that are common to us all. We urgently need it to build more inclusive, transformativeand accountable science and technology ecosystems that are free of biases and discrimination. In so doing, we will be able to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals, and address the challenges that impact us all

UN WOMEN Executive Director

EVENTS AND SYMPOSIUM


UN Member States are also taking action. For instance, Portugal is organizing a High-Level Symposium on Water during the 2nd UN Ocean Conference, which it is co-hosting with Kenya, in Lisbon, from 27 June to 1 July 2022, as a means of promoting an integrated vision of the water cycle. Tajikistan is holding the Second High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development 2018-2028, in June 2022, in Dushanbe.

In order to achieve full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls, and further achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/70/212 declaring 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

For further information, please contact: info@womeninscienceday.org

International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2016, February 11th

Международный день женщин и девочек в науке, 11 февраля.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science, 11 February.
Día Internacional de la Mujer y la Niña en la Ciencia , 11 de febrero.
Journée internationale des femmes de science, 11 février.
妇女和女童参与科学国际日, 2月11日.

اليوم الدولي للمرأة والفتيات في العلوم ، 11 فبراير

Int'l Day of Women Women and Girls in Science

Theme 2016 : Transforming the World : Parity in Science.

Message from Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO on the occasion of the first International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2016.

The new 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development underlines the power of science as a driver for human rights and dignity, poverty eradication and the protection of the planet.

On this first International Day of Women and Girls in Science, UNESCO’s message is clear – the new Agenda will not meet its promise without investing in women’s and girls’ empowerment through and in science.

More than ever today, the world needs science and science needs women.

Almost 21 years after the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action from the 4th World Conference on Women, women remain underrepresented in the natural sciences. According to the most recent UNESCO Science Report, women account for only 28 percent of researchers across the world, with the gap deepening at the higher echelons of decision-making. Women have less access to funding, to networks, to senior positions, which puts them at a further disadvantage in high-impact science publishing.

This calls for deep and sustained change, starting in the earliest years through improved participation of women and girls in science education, training and research activities at all levels. Girls’ and women’s access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) cannot be envisaged when girls and women remain the majority of out-of-school children, youth and illiterate adults. This gap throws a shadow over entire societies, as no country can move forward with only half its creativity, energy, and dreams.

Gender equality is a global priority at UNESCO, and promoting women and girls in science stands at the heart of this action, through a range of initiatives – starting with the flagship L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science partnership, and including the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World, the Global Partnership for Girls’ and Women’s Education, with a focus on STEM education, the SAGA (STEM and Gender Advancement) project, as well as the UNESCO UNITWIN Networks in Gender, Science and Technology, supporting women in science teaching and research.

On this first International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I invite all our partners and all Governments to redouble efforts to empower girls and women through and in science, as a foundation to take forward the 2030 Agenda.

Irina Bokova

FORUM : Women in Science Day

Living up to the United Nations Secretary General's guiding principle of "Leaving No-One Behind" necessitates the understanding that demography matters for sustainable development and that population dynamics will shape the key developmental challenges that the world in confronting in the 21st century. If our ambition is to "Build the Future We Want", we must address Parity in Science for Sustainable Development and accept that Science is for all.

Science and gender equality are both vital for the achievement of the internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In order to achieve full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls, the United Nations General Assembly declared 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.



 Why Are We Still Concerned about Women in Science?

Attracting women to science workforce and high-tech entrepreneurship and then retaining them will require changing the culture of science to make it more family-friendly and inviting.

(Opening Session) World Women's Health and Development Forum

The Inaugural World Women’s Health and Development Forum, organised by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) in partnership with the United Nations Department of Economics and Social Affairs, aims to advance the health, wealth and empowerment of women in all of their diverse communities. The Forum is the first international step towards a collaborative approach to women’s health and wellbeing.

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10.00 – 10.05 Opening Remarks: Princess Dr. Nisreen El-Hashemite, Executive Director, Royal Academy of Science International Trust, Founder of World Women’s Health and Development Forum
10.05 – 10.15 Secretary-General of the United Nations, H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon
10.15 – 10.25 Executive Director, UN Women, Under-Secretary-General H.E. Ms. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka
10.25 – 10.35 Executive Director, UNFPA, H.E. Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin
10.35 – 10.45 H.E. Ms. Veronika Skvortsova, Minister of Health, Russian Federation
10.45 – 10.55 Hon. Dr. Helena Dalli, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, Malta
10.55 – 11.05 H.E. Mrs. Marta Arsovska Tomovska, Deputy Minister of Information Society and Administration, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
11.05 – 11.15 Hon. Mr. Samy Gemayel, MP, Republic of Lebanon
11.15 – 11.20 Mr. Amir Dossal, Founder and Chairman of the Global Partnerships Forum
11.20 – 11.25 Youth Vision: Sigrid Semerdjian

World women's health and development forum



 The Future We Want, International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Share Your Dreams and Make Your Pledge in Support for a  United Nations Resolution for International Day of Women and Girls in Science.





  EVENTS : International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2016.

 Commemorating the very first observance of the day, a High-Level Forum will be held on 11 February 2016 at the United Nations Headquarters by The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) and DESA-DSPD.

 

It starts with an individual action. That leads to collective power, and translates to exponential impact! Within 32 days, RASIT received more than 3.75 million pledges. Government of Malta Sponsors and Presented draft resolution A/C.2/70/L.4/Rev.1 to the UN General Assembly Second Committee.Malta had received initial co-sponsorship of more than 65 other member states.

 

On Friday December 4th 2015, the Resolution is adopted, calling upon the  entire international community, from Member States to the person in the street, to commemorate annually on February 11 the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

RESOURCES :
    
United Nations Economic and Social Council

• Science, technology and innovation for the  Post-2015 Development Agenda - United Nations Economic and Social Council.
• Women Teachers Can Help Bridge  the Science Gender Gap - RASIT
• 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

• 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
• UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

UNCTAD

• UNCTAD Commission on Science and Technology for Development
• Transforming the World: Parity in Science - UNSDN

UNESCO

• International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2016
• UNESCO Promotes Gender Equality
• Women in Science Programme
• A Complex Formula-Girls and Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in Asia
• Building Capacity in Science and Engineering (press release)

UN WOMEN

• Why Goal 5 Matters
• Commission on the Status of Women

UNICEF

• Gender Equality-Investing in girls and women