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Sheikha Bodour Al-Qasimi, President of Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, delivered a powerful message at the 2nd Women in Tech Global Summit in Paris, urging tech companies and governments to embrace women’s perspectives in policymaking. Highlighting the importance of gender diversity in decision and policy-making, she emphasized that including more women in leadership positions would lead to a more inclusive, sustainable, and innovative STEM ecosystem.Addressing over 400 international delegates from various sectors, including business, government, civil society, and the arts, Sheikha Bodour Al-Qasimi stressed the need for rapid change in the representation of women in policymaking. She advocated for offering leadership opportunities to women and ensuring their perspectives are considered to maximize the benefits and mitigate the potential dangers of new technologies.The Emirati leader underscored the stark reality of women’s underrepresentation in decision-making positions, both in government and across political life. She cited data from UN Women, revealing that women are severely underrepresented at all levels of decision-making globally. Recognizing the progress made in the Arab world, Al-Qasimi highlighted that 57 percent of STEM graduates in the region are women, with the UAE leading with 61 percent.Describing women as creators of social fabric, Sheikha Bodour Al-Qasimi emphasized that empowering them to be more influential in decision-making would lead to policies that harness the benefits of new technologies while managing potential harms to communities. By giving women a greater voice in shaping policies, societies can foster innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable growth.Al-Qasimi emphasized the urgency of guaranteeing gender parity rather than merely setting it as a target. Emphasizing the need for swift action, she called for a shift away from the traditional dominance of men in government decision-making, policy frameworks, and regulatory parameters.The annual Women in Tech Global Summit strives to create a more inclusive and innovative STEM ecosystem. With participants from diverse backgrounds and sectors, the summit provides a platform for meaningful discussions on gender diversity, women’s leadership, and the role of women in shaping the future of technology.As a publishing entrepreneur and philanthropist, Sheikha Bodour Al-Qasimi has long been a proponent of women’s empowerment and inclusivity. Her advocacy for women’s perspectives in tech policymaking echoes a growing global movement to promote gender equality and create environments that embrace diverse voices and talents.In conclusion, the call to action from Sheikha Bodour Al-Qasimi at the Women in Tech Global Summit resonates as a reminder of the untapped potential of women in technology and the urgent need to break barriers and create an inclusive, gender-equal tech landscape. By empowering women and providing them with equal opportunities in leadership roles, societies can unlock the full potential of their creativity and problem-solving abilities to build a brighter and more equitable future for all.
