Closing the Gender Gap for a Sustainable Future

There is a clear link between promoting transversal – digital and entrepreneurial – skills, STEM disciplines, and the green and digital transitions in the European Union. Innovation, novel perspectives, and creative solutions in these fields are vital for a prosperous and sustainable future. Therefore, it is crucial that diverse actors, including women and under-represented groups, take part in ensuring a more inclusive and just transition. The Women and Girls in STEM Forum contributes to the discussion on achieving a carbon-neutral, circular economy and addressing the gender gap in education and training.

On 26 October 2022, the second edition of the Women and Girls in STEM Forum took place in a hybrid format in Brussels. The event gathered +800 educators, policymakers, and influential stakeholders in STEM and gender equality and connected them with the students participating in Girls Go Circular’s innovative learning programme. This year’s theme was “Empowering Girls in Science and Technology”. This edition was marked by the participation of 44 female students from 10 European countries who attended the event in person, after competing in an App Challenge. Watch the key moments of the Women and Girls in STEM Forum 2022 in the Highlights Video (below) or access the full recording of the event.

The gender gap in STEM leads to missed opportunities to foster innovation, diversity, and economic growth in the EU. The full and equal participation of all citizens in science and technology is crucial to achieving Europe’s climate-neutrality goals. Therefore, dismantling gender stereotypes is of the highest importance. Speakers at the Women and Girls in STEM Forum 2022 presented several initiatives advancing gender equality and empowering women to pursue careers in STEM. The WGSF Policy Brief outlines key steps identified to tackle the gender gap in STEM.

The first edition of the Women and Girls in STEM Forum gathered over 400 policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, students, and teachers to advance the European discussions on gender equality in STEM and ICT. The speakers proposed ideas for further action and reported on several initiatives contributing to gender equality in key areas and empowering women to pursue STEM careers. Watch the key moments of the Women and Girls in STEM Forum 2021 in the Highlights Video (below).

The WGSF Policy Brief summarises the main findings of the event’s first edition and highlights essential European policies and initiatives to reduce gender bias in STEM and ICT. Have a look at the policy brief and find inspiration to promote gender equality in STEM and ICT!