The global representation of women in scientific research has reached 41 percent in 2022, a significant rise from just 28 percent in 2001, according to the “Gender Equality in Research and Innovation 2024” report by Elsevier. The increase is particularly notable in the health sciences sector.
To celebrate this progress and encourage more women to pursue careers in science, China’s Ministry of Science and Technology and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China jointly hosted a seminar on Friday. The event marked the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing in 1995.
Despite the advancements, traditional research evaluation methods may still overlook many contributions of female researchers. This undervaluation continues to perpetuate gender inequality, posing significant challenges to the research ecosystem.
“The Netherlands and China recognize this challenge, and both countries are committed to promoting gender equality in science,” said Roderick Wols, Minister Plenipotentiary and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Beijing.
The seminar showcased the outstanding achievements of female scientists involved in Sino-Dutch collaborative research projects. It featured keynote speeches, career advice sessions, and shared strategies for promoting women’s participation in the scientific field.
Speakers highlighted recent progress in joint projects, including research on adult pancreas stem cells for regenerative approaches in diabetes between the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research, as well as collaborations in advanced battery technologies.
A panel discussion concluded the event, focusing on the experiences and perspectives of female scientists. “Do not let her choose what she should do. Let her choose what she likes,” advised Professor Li Hongnan from the Institute of Agricultural Environment and Sustainable Development at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
The event underscored the importance of international cooperation in bridging the gender gap in science and inspiring the next generation of female researchers.
