On Dec, 22, 2015, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science was established by resolution of the United Nations General Assembly.

This resolution formally proclaimed February 11 as the annual observation of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science – a day that recognizes the critical role women and girls play in science and technology.

Gender equality in science is crucial for building a better future for all, yet women and girls continue to face systemic barriers and biases in pursuing scientific careers. Closing the gender gap in science requires breaking stereotypes, promoting role models to inspire girls, supporting women’s advancement through targeted programs, and fostering inclusive environments through policies and actions that promote inclusion, diversity and equity.

Despite a shortage of skills in most of the technological fields driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution, women still account for only 28% of engineering graduates and 40% of graduates in computer science and informatics. In cutting edge fields such as artificial intelligence, only one in five professionals (22%) is a woman.

On 20 December 2013, the General Assembly adopted a resolution on science, technology and innovation for development, in which it recognized that full and equal access to and participation in science, technology and innovation for women and girls of all ages is imperative for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.