The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is observed every year, in accordance with a resolution by the United Nations General Assembly, to advocate for equitable access and active participation of women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
To address the existing gender gap in these domains, the UN General Assembly enacted resolution 70/212 on December 22, 2015, marking February 11 as a day of recognition. Each year, this occasion adopts a specific theme that emphasizes critical aspects of promoting gender equality in science while initiating conversations aimed at dismantling the obstacles that hinder women’s engagement in STEM disciplines.
Collaborative Implementation
The implementation of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a concerted effort led by UNESCO in partnership with UN Women. These organizations collaborate with national governments, intergovernmental bodies, civil society, academic institutions, and businesses to champion gender equality within scientific fields. Their initiatives not only aspire to increase female participation in STEM but also honor the achievements of women who have significantly contributed to these areas.
Historical Context
Women have long been underrepresented in science and technology. In the United States, there was a noticeable rise in women earning degrees in science and engineering from the 1960s to the 1980s, but this advancement plateaued in subsequent decades. A 2013 survey in the UK indicated minimal shifts in women’s involvement in STEM over a span of 25 years. Factors such as societal expectations regarding domestic roles, early marriages, and discriminatory practices in the labor market have impeded women in developing areas like Africa, South Asia, and the Caribbean from pursuing education and careers in scientific fields.
These challenges persist, often reflecting gender biases. For instance, a 2013 study in the UK found that educators, family members, and peers were less likely to encourage girls to study physics. Additionally, there are regional disparities in female STEM participation; while the Arab world exhibits a high enrollment of women in scientific disciplines (between 60% and 80%), societal and professional barriers inhibit their career progression. Conversely, in the United States, low enrollment in STEM fields leads to fewer women pursuing careers in science.
United Nations Resolution
On December 22, 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 70/212, officially recognizing February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The resolution encourages member states, UN entities, businesses, and individuals to engage in educational and outreach activities promoting gender equality in STEM. It also builds on previous UN commitments, including resolution 70/1, “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” which incorporates gender equality and educational objectives.
Annual Events and Themes
Every February 11, the United Nations celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly, uniting representatives from member states, international organizations, the private sector, and esteemed scientists to strategize on boosting female representation in STEM. The event enjoys co-sponsorship from the Permanent Missions to the United Nations of several countries, and each year is guided by a central theme that encapsulates the spirit of the observance.
Previous Annual Themes:
- 2016: Transforming the World: Parity in Science
- 2017: Gender, Science and Sustainable Development: The Impact of Media – From Vision to Action
- 2018: Equality and Parity in Science for Peace and Development
- 2019: Investment in Women and Girls in Science for Inclusive Green Growth
- 2020: Equality in Science, Technology and Innovation: Global Trends and Challenges
- 2021: Beyond the Borders: Equality in Science for Society
- 2022: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Water Unites Us
- 2023: Innovate. Demonstrate. Elevate. Advance. Sustain. IDEAS: Bringing Everyone Forward for Sustainable and Equitable Development
- 2024: Women and Girls in Science Leadership – a New Era for Sustainability
Government Engagement
Beyond the UN Assembly, various national governments actively participate in commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. These initiatives often focus on raising awareness, increasing funding for scientific projects led by women, and cultivating inclusive educational settings for those pursuing STEM careers. For instance, in 2022, Maryland’s First Lady Yumi Hogan publicly endorsed the observance, showcasing the vital contributions of women in forensic sciences.
Closing Thoughts
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a vital observance that highlights ongoing gender disparities in STEM fields, reiterating the necessity for sustained efforts to overcome these challenges. Through collective endeavors led by UNESCO, UN Women, and various governmental bodies, this day not only enhances awareness of gender issues but also inspires transformational changes, ensuring that women and girls have equal opportunities to thrive in scientific fields. As the world works towards fulfilling the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, this annual event remains fundamental in fostering gender equality and promoting scientific progress that benefits all.
References:
- United Nations General Assembly Resolution 70/212 (2015).
- UNESCO & UN Women Reports on Women in Science (Various Years).
- UK Studies on Gender Barriers in STEM (2013).
- United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 & SDG 5).
- International Day of Women and Girls in Science Annual Reports (2016–2023).
