Science, technology, and gender equality: Breaking barriers and building a stronger future

Abstract

Science and gender equality are vital for the achievement of the internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Gender equality is a fundamental human right and a pillar of long-term development. Science and technology have the potential to transform communities and economies into more inclusive and equal places. Women and girls continue to confront considerable impediments to entry, involvement, and representation in scientific and technology disciplines in many regions of the world. Over the past decades, the global community has made a lot of effort in inspiring and engaging women and girls in science. Yet less than 30% of the world’s researchers are women and continue to be excluded from participating fully in science (UNESCO, 2021). This editorial explores the relationship between science, technology, and gender equality, focusing on the historical challenges that women have encountered, the progress that has been made, and the possibility of a brighter future.