UNESCO, in partnership with Gender Scan, has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to collect comprehensive data on the obstacles and opportunities faced by women in science and technology. The global survey, launched on 31 May 2024, aims to uncover the reasons behind the significant gender gap in science, which has far-reaching impacts on society at large.
According to UNESCO data, women make up only 33% of researchers worldwide, hold a mere 12% of memberships in national science academies, and face greater challenges in obtaining research grants compared to their male counterparts. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need to address the gender disparities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
To gain a deeper understanding of the motivations and challenges faced by students and professionals in scientific fields, UNESCO and Gender Scan have designed two surveys tailored to each group. The surveys cover a wide range of key topics, including educational experiences, career progression, work-life balance, prejudices, harassment, leadership barriers, and wage gaps. By capturing data from diverse contexts, the initiative aims to identify both global trends and region-specific realities.
The surveys will be conducted across various STEM fields, including astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, earth sciences, health sciences, information technology, mathematics, physics, and more. This comprehensive approach to data collection will provide a holistic view of the current state of women in STEM, enabling policymakers and stakeholders to develop targeted interventions and support mechanisms.
UNESCO and Gender Scan are mobilizing the global science and technology communities to promote the survey and encourage widespread participation. They are urging TVET institutions, universities, research organizations, enterprises, and industries in the field of STEM worldwide to share the survey with their networks and encourage students and professionals to contribute their experiences and insights.
The data collected through this initiative will be instrumental in preparing a report on the status of women in STEM, which UNESCO, in collaboration with the working group on women's empowerment recently established by the Brazilian presidency, will present at the upcoming G20 summit. This report will serve as a critical tool for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders to develop strategies and implement policies that promote gender equality in STEM fields.
The launch of this global survey marks a significant step towards addressing the persistent gender gap in science and technology. By gathering comprehensive data on the experiences of women in STEM, UNESCO and Gender Scan are paving the way for evidence-based interventions that will create a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. The initiative calls upon all stakeholders to actively participate in the survey and contribute to this crucial endeavor.
As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges that require innovative scientific solutions, it is imperative that we harness the full potential of all individuals, regardless of gender. The UNESCO and Gender Scan global survey on women in STEM is a vital step towards achieving this goal and ensuring that the scientific community reflects the diversity of the world it serves.
