Women continue to be underrepresented in science. According to recent data, only about 32% of researchers worldwide are women, highlighting the persistence of gender inequality in the field.
In Armenia, gender inequality in the scientific community may seem less pronounced at first glance, but the imbalance becomes more visible at the level of power and decision-making: only about a quarter of leadership positions in science are held by women. As we can see, presence does not always mean influence.
February 11 marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It aims to emphasize the importance of harnessing the potential of women in science and ensuring equal rights and opportunities to participate in scientific fields. This day once again reminds us that science, like many other domains, cannot and should not exclude half of humanity.
This year’s UN-approved theme focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence, social sciences, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), and finance as a pathway toward a more inclusive future for women and girls.
Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of our daily lives in recent years, from writing and research to data analysis and even decision-making. It holds promise, but it also carries risks. Experts warn that without gender-sensitive policies, AI may unintentionally reproduce harmful narratives and existing inequalities, once again leaving women and girls behind, this time in digital form.
The UN emphasizes that when artificial intelligence, social sciences, STEM, and finance converge, they can bring real change by reducing gender inequalities in the digital sphere, supporting women-led startups, shaping inclusive AI governance, and mobilizing financial resources toward equality.
At the same time, it would be dishonest to speak about technological progress without acknowledging the damage it can cause. Artificial intelligence places a heavy burden on the environment, particularly on water resources. Progress that ignores ecological limits is no progress at all. Therefore, if AI cannot be fully excluded, it must at least be used consciously, sparingly, and responsibly.
Eliminating gender inequality in science is important not only from the perspective of justice, but also for the quality, relevance, and ethics of scientific and technological innovation. For half of humanity, the digital world still contains blind spots: systems designed without women in mind. Inclusivity makes science more humane and more responsive to real human needs.
We can all make our own small contribution to reducing gender inequality in science and building a more inclusive world:
- Research and actively highlight the achievements of women in STEM. Many scientific contributions by women remain invisible, unnamed, and undervalued.
- Support organizations and initiatives that invest in girls’ education and women’s scientific careers. Good intentions without resources rarely lead to change.
- Encourage curiosity and confidence among women and girls, especially those choosing a profession or daring to start again.
- Become a mentor. Sometimes one conversation, one open door, can change the direction of an entire life.
The question is no longer whether women and girls belong in science, a debate that should already be behind us. The more urgent question is how long systems will continue to waste talent by denying women access, recognition, and leadership. Inclusion in science should not be treated as a gift; it is a responsibility.
Science is advancing at an unprecedented pace, shaped by artificial intelligence and complex global challenges. In this context, exclusion becomes not only unjust, but dangerous. Technologies built without diverse voices inevitably carry the limitations, biases, stereotypes, and silences of those who create them.
