United Nations, the Struggle for Gender Equity, and Queering Global Science

Area of Science:

• Gender studies in STEM
• Science communication
• Global governance

Background:

• UN Women, established for gender equality, exemplifies global governance shifts.
• Persistent disparities in gender diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) exist in STEM fields and science communication.
• Gender essentialism and binary thinking adversely impact DEI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the history of UN Women and current DEI disparities in STEM.
• To critique superficial solutions and advocate for systemic change in research cultures.
• To highlight the detrimental effects of gender inequities on individuals, communities, and scientific innovation.

Main Methods:

• Opinion commentary and critical analysis of institutional history.
• Application of queer theory as a framework for examining norms and assumptions in science.
• Systems thinking approach to understanding and addressing DEI inequities.

Main Results:

• Superficial solutions and professional maneuvering mask systemic causes of DEI inequities.
• Queering global science and challenging hegemonic assumptions are crucial for reflexive change.
• DEI inequities in STEM harm individuals, communities, and hinder scientific progress and intergenerational justice.

Conclusions:

• Liberatory structural change is possible by confronting systemic DEI issues.
• Rethinking assumptions in sex, gender, science, and society is essential.
• Remedying gender equity gaps is vital for just, responsible, democratic, and innovative global science and planetary health.