On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, international groups published an analysis of gender equality in national science organisations. They used data from 136 scientific organisations and a survey of nearly 600 scientists.
The study found that women made up about 19% of academy members in 2025, up from 12% in 2015. Despite this rise, only one in five academies had a woman as chair and almost half had no women as vice-presidents or co-chairs.
The report warns that informal networks still affect who becomes a leader. It recommends including gender equality in governance, budgets and strategy, and giving clear plans, responsibility and funding for change.
Difficult words
- analysis — study of information to find meaning
- gender equality — equal rights and chances for women and men
- organisation — group that works for a common purposeorganisations
- survey — set of questions for many people
- academy — formal group for scholars or expertsacademy members, academies
- chair — person who leads a committee or group
- governance — way an organisation is managed and led
- budget — plan for how to spend moneybudgets
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is it important to have women as leaders in science organisations?
- What simple steps can an organisation take to improve gender equality?
- Have you seen an example of a woman leader in science? Describe briefly.
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