The United Nations has raised concern over what it describes as a significant gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), saying women remain under-represented at all levels globally.
The issue is being spotlighted as the world marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Feb. 11. The 2026 theme, “Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls,” underscores the need for cross-sector collaboration to drive inclusion.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted that the disparity is especially evident in technology-related fields, where women account for just 26 per cent of the workforce in data and artificial intelligence, and 12 per cent in cloud computing.
Although women are more likely than young men to pursue higher education, they make up only 35 per cent of science graduates. Factors such as limited access to research funding, gender stereotypes and discriminatory workplace practices have been identified as key barriers to greater participation.
Guterres warned that sidelining women in science weakens global efforts to tackle pressing challenges, including climate change, public health crises and space security.
The UN emphasised that integrating artificial intelligence, social science, STEM and finance could help fast-track inclusive and sustainable development. According to the organisation, collaboration across these sectors can help close digital skills gaps, support women-led start-ups, promote gender-responsive AI governance and channel funding toward inclusive innovation.
“From advancing renewable energy to preventing the next pandemic, our future depends on unlocking as much human talent as possible,” Guterres said, urging sustained efforts to ensure women and girls can achieve their scientific ambitions.
Meanwhile, a programme led by UNICEF is helping to bridge the gap by combining science masterclasses with mentoring, communication training and confidence-building initiatives. Thousands of girls have participated, with many going on to pursue university degrees in STEM fields.