International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Every year on February 11th, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated around the world. This day honours the accomplishments of females in the field of science and aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, has an equal opportunity to engage in and contribute to science.

Given the challenges the world is facing, like the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing climate crisis, it’s crucial to involve women and girls in science research. Unfortunately, women in science often encounter discrimination. Globally, only 33% of researchers are women, and they receive less research funding and promotions than their male counterparts. Women in science also tend to have shorter, less well-paid careers, and their work is not as widely recognized in top journals. In the field of Artificial Intelligence, only 22% of professionals are female.

Recognising the importance of participation by women and girls in science, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) established the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015. This year, an event is being organised at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This event will provide a platform for women researchers and officials to discuss the significance of women’s participation in achieving global scientific goals.