UNCTAD eWeek 2023 | Women in the digital economy

In a landscape where technology plays a pivotal role in shaping economies, a concerted effort is underway to address the digital gender gap. At the UNCTAD eWeek 2023 session titled ‘Women in the digital economy: driving the usage of digital technology among women (UNCDF)‘, Shang Gao, Veyrl Adell, Karima Wardak, Maxima Nsiimenta, Enkhjargal Natsagdorj, Elwyn Panggabean, and Rupa Chanda offered unique perspectives that underscore the multifaceted approach required to tackle this pressing issue.

Gender and digital skills

Shang Gao underscored the proactive stance of Amazon Web Services (AWS) in narrowing the digital gender gap. AWS commits to training millions globally by 2025, focusing on empowering women and girls in tech. Through collaborations with various organizations, they address needs and challenge industry stereotypes, aiming to create an inclusive environment for all. Collaborations with organizations, infrastructure development efforts, and targeted programs like AWS GetIT and AWS CloudApp for Her underscore their dedication to inclusivity and diversity.

Empowering women in trade

Veyrl Adell’s entrepreneurial pivot towards empowering women in trade through credit access stands as a testament to innovative solutions. Her integrated platform and the EFP system highlight the focus on market-oriented solutions, particularly targeting women and youth. Adell’s emphasis on open-source development and collaboration underscores her commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry.

Barriers and solutions in women’s digital participation

Karima Wardak identified critical barriers hindering women’s participation in the digital economy, such as affordability, limited digital knowledge, and societal norms. Targeted interventions, financial literacy programs, innovative product design like the Kirike POS product, and skill-building initiatives emerge as crucial solutions, Wardak noted.

Initiatives in Uganda: Community-based empowerment

Maxima Nsiimenta directed her attention toward women’s empowerment and sustainable development in Uganda, delving into the complexities surrounding gender-based violence and trauma. Within communities afflicted by war and trauma, a stark reality of heightened poverty prevails, where women shoulder leadership roles amidst socio-cultural tension and conflict. Conquering these adversities emerges as an indispensable step toward attaining gender parity and fostering holistic well-being and good health.

Technological empowerment in Mongolia and Central Asia

Enkhjargal Natsagdorj’s spotlight on the Kirike POS product in Mongolia and Central Asia addresses financial and digital exclusion faced by women. This initiative not only empowers women but also contributes to economic growth, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals. Through training and technological innovations, Natsagdorj’s initiative stands as a beacon for inclusive economic participation.

Strategies to overcome gender disparity in digital access

Elwyn Panggabean articulated strategies to overcome gender disparities, emphasizing the importance of relevant services, digital skill-building, education investments, and adopting a gender lens in product development. Varial’s gender-focused approach exemplifies inclusivity in product design.

Global endeavors to bridge the digital gender gap

Rupa Chanda highlights the global digital gender gap and efforts by organizations like ESCAP. ESCAP’s initiatives on collaboration, skills development, and funding underscore the economic implications of closing the gender divide. Recognition of women’s underrepresentation in STEM fields stands as a critical aspect in achieving a balanced digital workforce.