Advancing women in science: Policies for progress

Abstract

Over the past few decades, policy issues about the participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields have been discussed less in terms of human rights and social justice, and increasingly in terms of national development and international competitiveness. In today’s ever expanding knowledge-based and innovation-driven global economy, nations must maximize the development and utilization of all of their human resources. Therefore, enhancing opportunities for STEM education and careers for all segments of the population has become a priority on many policy agendas.