In order to achieve adequate participation in science for women and girls and contribute to their empowerment, the United Nations General Assembly declared 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015.

According to a recent science report of UNESCO, 33 per cent of the world’s researchers are women. Female researchers are awarded less research funding than men and are less likely to be promoted. The report also shows that the presence of women in tech industries is very limited. Only 1 in 5 professionals working in artificial intelligence and 1 in 3 engineering graduates are women.

Education systems and professionals can play a key role: by encouraging female pupils and students and enhancing trust in their competences of those who would like to pursue a career in a STEM field.

Especially in the frame of its Commissions on ‘Women’s Rights and Gender Equality’ and ‘Education, Training and Research’, CESI honours this year’s international day and remains committed to the further promotion of equal opportunities between women and men.

According to CESI, the fundamental principle of equality between women and men is vital for the achievement of the goals of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, but it is also a common value of the EU and a necessary condition for achieving further growth, innovation, employment and social cohesion in the EU.

CESI Secretary General Klaus Heeger said: “In a changing world full of new challenges and risks, sustainable solutions require harnessing all talent of our communities. Diversity in research is vital in order to bring in fresh perspectives and deal with the complex issues of our times. And this means strengthening the role of women in these fields. Science must not miss the talents of women.”

He added: “Now is the time to stop systemic disparities, eliminate stereotypes and work towards a new culture in science and work that is free of biases and discrimination. As CESI, we stand ready to contribute our part in this.”