Online discussion on women in STEM and industry: key learnings

These challenges reflect a need for stronger institutional commitment, regulatory support, and integration of gender aspects in policy design and implementation (e.g. Smart Specialisation Strategies – S3/S4). Examples are:

• Lack of stakeholder engagement, particularly local and regional authorities
• How to include gender issues in S3 and S4 strategies
• Rights and barriers related to maternity leave

These challenges reflect the need for long-term societal transformation, addressing stereotypes and implicit biases that limit women's participation and recognition in high-value sectors. Examples are:

• Cultural change related to gender issues, as tech domains are still often perceived as male dominated, and girls / young women are reluctant to choose STEM curricula and carriers
• Prejudices about the capabilities of women and their influence on financial support and skill training
• Unconscious bias

Policy solutions here often involve support for childcare, flexible working arrangements, and legislative guarantees around parental leave. Examples are:

• Balance between work and family, both on corporate and societal level
• Rights and barriers related with maternity leave

This group relates to creating enabling environments and support structures to foster female leadership and participation in innovation and business. Examples are:

• Access to financial support, resources and networking support services
• Lack of mentors
• Lack of role models and their promotion