Women and Girls in Science: Challenges and Prospects in Turkmenistan

On February 11, the international community marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The United Nations emphasizes that the world needs science — and science needs women and girls. Globally, women make up only about one-third of professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Although progress has been made, gender imbalance remains a serious issue worldwide. For Turkmenistan, this topic carries particular importance. Reliable and regularly published statistics on women's participation in scientific and technological sectors remain limited. Restricted academic openness and insufficient integration into the international scientific community hinder the country’s scientific development. We observe several factors influencing opportunities for women and girls: limited academic freedoms; insufficient mechanisms for international scientific cooperation; administrative complexities related to passport issuance or renewal through diplomatic institutions for citizens residing abroad; persistent social stereotypes and gender barriers; limited career advancement opportunities for young female researchers. Girls from regional areas face additional challenges due to unequal access to modern educational infrastructure. Science cannot flourish without freedom of thought, transparency, open exchange of knowledge, and equal opportunities. Support for women in science must be systematic and practical — beginning with quality school education and continuing through professional development and international engagement. The Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” calls for: equal access to quality education for girls across all regions; expansion of international academic programs; greater transparency in statistical data on women's participation in STEM; meaningful support programs for young women scientists; predictable and accessible administrative procedures for citizens abroad, including documentation services through diplomatic institutions. Investing in girls’ education is an investment in the country’s sustainable future. Science develops where there is openness, equality, and respect for human rights.