On 22 December 2015, the General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish an annual International Day to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science and technology.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated on 11 February, is implemented by UNESCO and UN-Women, in collaboration institutions and civil society partners that aim to promote women and girls in science. This Day is an opportunity to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. Gender equality is a global priority for UNESCO, and the support of young girls, their education and their full ability to make their ideas heard are levers for development and peace.
Tackling some of the greatest challenges of the Agenda for Sustainable Development — from improving health to combating climate change — will rely on harnessing all talent. That means getting more women working in these fields. Diversity in research expands the pool of talented researchers, bringing in fresh perspectives, talent and creativity. This Day is a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology communities and that their participation should be strengthened.
The main event takes place at Expo 2020 Dubai
Co-organized by Expo 2020 Dubai, UNESCO, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT), the event will celebrate the work and the achievements of women scientists contributing to innovation and progress in science and technology, while encouraging the next generation of young women and girls to pursue careers in science.
The event will specifically focus on space science, climate change, energy, and computer science bas rapidly evolving areas. In addition to playing a critical role for our shared future, these disciplines are essential in the ongoing Digital Revolution and will lead to economic growth, resource optimization, propel breakthroughs and innovations, and ultimately impact gender equity and inclusivity.
Another event for this international Day is the the 7th International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly , taking place in virtual format from UN Headquarters in New York, that aims to recognize the role of women and girls in science, not only as beneficiaries, but also as agents of change, including in view of accelerating progress towards the achievement of SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
The event is co-organized by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) and the Permanent Missions of Cyprus, Kenya, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Rwanda, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Tajikistan to the United Nations.
