Sitarah Anjum : Opinion

International Women’s Day is a celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality. It is a day that highlights the progress made towards women’s rights, while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done. From the gender pay gap to violence and misogyny, there are still significant barriers that women face in achieving true equality.

Women have made important contributions to the digital world, but they continue to be underrepresented in the industry. According to a report, women make up only 22 per cent of artificial intelligence workers globally. This is a concerning statistic, especially as AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in our daily lives. It is essential that women are included in the development and design of AI technology to ensure that it is representative and serves everyone equally.

Another issue that has come to the forefront in recent years is gender bias in AI systems. A global analysis of 133 AI systems across industries found that 44.2 per cent demonstrate gender bias. This is a significant concern as AI systems are being used to make important decisions, including hiring and promotion. If these systems are biased, they can perpetuate discrimination and inequality.

Violence against women, both online and offline, remains a pervasive issue. A survey of women journalists from 125 countries found that 73 per cent had suffered online violence in the course of their work. This is an alarming statistic and shows that even in the digital age, women are not safe from violence and harassment.

The lack of representation of women in top jobs, leadership roles and politics is also a significant issue. Women continue to be underrepresented in these areas, making it harder for them to have their voices heard and their needs addressed.

All these issues are interconnected and highlight the need for urgent action towards gender equality. Women must have equal access to education and job opportunities to ensure they are represented in all fields, including technology. It is also crucial that AI systems are designed and tested for bias, and that women are included in decision-making processes. Furthermore, there must be zero tolerance for online and offline violence against women.

This Women’s Day, it is important to reflect on the progress that has been made, while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. We must continue to push for change and work towards creating a world where women and girls have the same opportunities and rights as men and boys. This means addressing issues such as the gender pay gap, violence against women, misogyny, and lack of representation in top jobs, leadership roles, and politics. Only then can we truly achieve gender equality and build a better future for all.

In conclusion, the digital age presents both opportunities and challenges for women. While digital technology can empower and enable women to participate fully in society, it can also perpetuate inequality and discrimination. This Women’s Day, let us recommit to building a world where women are valued and can participate fully and equally in all areas of life. Together, we can create a world where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality.