For an inclusive digital world: innovation and technology for gender equality.

Our lives are increasingly dependent on strong technological integration. Taking a course, calling relatives, making a bank transaction or booking a medical appointment, everything these days involves a digital process.

Yet 37% of women do not use the internet, and although they make up almost half of the world's population, the technology gap still works against them.

If women cannot access the internet and do not feel safe online, they are unable to develop the necessary digital skills and engage in digital spaces, diminishing their opportunities to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

By 2050, 75% of jobs will be related to science and technology fields. Yet today, women hold only 22% of jobs in artificial intelligence, to give just one example.

The inclusion of women in technology fields results in more creative solutions and offers greater potential for innovations that meet women's needs and promote gender equality. Their lack of inclusion, on the other hand, comes with huge costs.

The theme of this year's International Women's Day 2023 is Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality: For an Inclusive Digital World. It salutes and celebrates the women and girls who champion the advancement of transformative technology and digital education. The celebration explores the impact of the digital gender gap on widening economic and social inequalities, and also highlights the importance of protecting the rights of women and girls in digital spaces and addressing online gender-based violence facilitated by information and communication technologies (ICT).