Event
2025 International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science
Science in the 21st century is dynamic, collaborative and diverse, serving as a powerful tool to address global challenges and opening doors to careers far beyond the lab. Pioneers like Marie Curie have proven that women can shape and lead scientific disciplines. Yet, her standing as one of the few widely recognized women scientists reveals the pressing need to advance gender equality and celebrate more diverse contributions.
Building on the UNESCO Call to Action “Closing the Gender Gap in Science”, we will explore together the critical role of women in scientific innovation and discuss the need for inclusive media representation to challenge gender stereotypes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers.
This celebration will bring together Member States, rising and renowned scientists, public and private leaders, UNESCO scientific networks and Chairs, journalists, as well as students.
Afternoon roundtables
Speakers from diverse backgrounds will share their inspiring journeys, highlighting the transformative power of diversity in STEM and how varied perspectives, including those of women, enrich scientific innovation. The discussion will also emphasize the many opportunities a STEM background provides and how science contributes to building a more equitable world.
This roundtable will explore the representation of women in science and diverse STEM career pathways across mass media. Experts will discuss how better media representation can reshape perceptions of gender roles and build public trust in science, while identifying concrete actions for fostering a more inclusive scientific community, where every voice is valued.
Screening of the documentary "Women of Science: These women who change our lives"
The celebrations at UNESCO Headquarters will continue at 6:30 p.m. with the screening of the documentary “”, directed by Safia Kessas and produced by Iota Production, with the support of the Radio Télévision Belge Francophone (RTBF), the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and the Wallonia-Brussels Federation to UNESCO.
Through the journeys of six women scientists from across Europe, it highlights their remarkable contributions and the challenges they have overcome along the way, offering an inspiring look at the impact of women in science.
In-person participation
The event is open to the public, and we warmly invite you to join us in person (Room II, UNESCO Headquarters). Please note that registration is required for all in-person participants. While we encourage you to join both the afternoon and evening sessions, attendance at either session individually is also possible.
Online participation
In addition to in-person attendance, the event will also be accessible online via Zoom. Kindly note that registration is required for all online participants.
Contact us
For any further information, please do not hesitate to contact the UNESCO Women in Science team at fwis@unesco.org.
