Advancing gender-responsive science, technology and innovation policies for inclusive digital transformation in countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

This project aims to strengthen the capacity of policymakers in three countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to design and implement gender-responsive science, technology and innovation policies that address the differentiated needs of women and girls.

It contributes to inclusive digital transformation and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, in alignment with the Global Digital Compact and the Pact for the Future.

Objective

The project addresses the limited capacity of national institutions to assess how science, technology and innovation systems, and digital innovation in particular, affect women and girls differently from men and boys. Without stronger diagnostic tools, data and coordination, science, technology and innovation policies risk reinforcing digital exclusion.

Although ASEAN countries have expanded digital access, gender digital disparities persist, including in access, skills, meaningful use and participation in science, technology and innovation fields, particularly among rural and low-income women.

Activities

The project will be implemented by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in collaboration with ESCAP, Resident Coordinator Offices and United Nations Country Teams.

It will conduct national gender assessments of digital technologies in selected priority sectors, such as education, health, or agriculture. These assessments will identify gender digital divides, map relevant institutional and policy environments, and provide tailored recommendations.

The project will also support consultations, national stakeholder workshops, training and advisory activities to help policymakers and national consultants apply inclusive assessment tools and translate findings into policy action.

Expected results

The project is expected to strengthen national capacity to assess gender digital divides in priority sectors and identify concrete actions to address barriers affecting women and girls.

It will also support the design of inclusive science, technology and innovation policies aligned with national strategies, the Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Digital Compact. Results and lessons learned will be shared regionally and globally to support replication in other contexts.