Empowering Women in Science and Technology on International Women’s Day

Bridging Gender Gaps in Technology

“By bridging the gender gap in accessing and shaping science and technology, we remove the existing barriers to equal opportunities and create technology that serves a broader demographic and the planet,” states UN Women, as we approach International Women’s Day on March 8. However, the backdrop to the celebrations reveals a much less optimistic outlook.

Current State of Gender Equality

According to the World Economic Forum, the global timeline for achieving gender balance is projected to extend until 2158. A notable action during Donald Trump’s presidency included rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, a move that many corporations emulated, resulting in diminished DEI commitments.

This Year’s Theme

The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” This celebration comes ahead of the UN’s 69th Commission on the Status of Women, which will address the outcomes of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—now marking its 30th anniversary—focused on gender equality and women’s rights.

Call to Action

Organizers urge a collective acceleration of action to hasten progress worldwide.

“The 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action reminds global leaders and activists that our shared future hinges on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls,” emphasizes UN Women.

The Digital Divide

“Addressing the digital gender divide could yield $500 billion in savings over the next five years. Technology should be a tool for equality rather than exclusion. It’s crucial to support the Global Digital Compact and implement policies that provide equal access and leadership opportunities for women and girls in tech,” adds UN Women.

Key Insights from UN Women

• For 89% of governments, prioritizing the end of violence against women is crucial; legal measures exist in 193 countries.
• Evidence indicates that nations with laws addressing domestic violence report fewer incidents.
• Global educational parity has largely been achieved; closing the gender gap in science and technology is vital for creating equitable opportunities.
• More nations are enhancing care services, with 32% now advocating for improved pay and safe working conditions for care providers.
• Currently, 112 countries have established national plans to involve women in peace and security processes, a significant increase from just 19 in 2010.

Historical Context

International Women’s Day (IWD) has its roots in the early 1900s. It was first celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland on March 19, following a decision made in Copenhagen in 1911. Over a million people rallied for women’s rights to work, vote, receive education, hold office, and combat discrimination. The UN officially recognized IWD in 1975.

The Current Landscape for Women in Media and IT

Moonshot News highlights challenges faced by women in technology and media. Despite generative AI showing potential for empowering women in IT, only 24% of top editorial positions in major media outlets are held by women, even though women represent approximately 40% of journalists.

Challenges and Opportunities

77.8% of women report experiencing age-based discrimination in their careers, while only 12.7% claim to have never faced ageism. This underscores the persistent challenge that ageism poses across various sectors.

Moreover, women hold just 17% of international patents, while men possess 83%. The trend suggests that achieving gender parity in this arena will not occur until 2061, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Women’s Mental Health and Well-being

Half of women surveyed indicate their stress levels have risen since last year, revealing that adequate mental health support remains unresolved in many workplaces. Other factors influencing job changes include insufficient flexible working arrangements and work-life balance issues.

Ninety-two women journalists are currently imprisoned, with many facing severe charges, including potential death sentences. This alarming statistic highlights ongoing dangers confronting women in the media.

Long-term Perspectives on Gender Parity

Estimates suggest that a full realization of gender parity may take another 134 years, with underrepresentation of women in high-paying sectors like technology contributing to the gender pay gap. However, progress is noted in the AI engineering field, where the share of female talent has been on the rise.

Women in Leadership

The number of women entering leadership roles continues to decline, but emerging technologies like generative AI offer a unique opportunity to bridge this gap. Many women are actively pursuing technical upskilling to advance their careers.

Representation in Media and Sports

In film, representation of women as lead characters has decreased, with only 30% seen in leading roles last year, a stark drop compared to previous years. On the creative side, there is growing investor interest in femtech startups, focusing on women’s health, indicating a shift in recognition of women’s healthcare needs.

Sports and Gaming Diversity

Nearly half of global gamers are women, yet they remain underrepresented in the industry. Efforts to better balance gender representation in gaming are underway, as highlighted in the GDI Playbook.

Final Thoughts

The fight for gender equality continues across all sectors. From addressing cyberviolence against women to enhancing women’s roles in media, technology, and beyond, it is essential to recognize and act on the unique challenges faced by women worldwide.