The Selection Committee will select the country/countries to be designated the World “Capital of Women and Girls in Science”.
The number of Countries holding the title each year (‘the year of the title’) shall not exceed three (3) countries, representing different global regions.
The title “Capital Country” is for one year. Countries may hold the designation of Capital Country ONCE during the period of the Initiative.
If more than one country is awarded the title in a particular year, countries designated for the same year may seek to develop links between their programs. The designation of Capital Country will be awarded irrespective of the size of a country.
The Selection Committee will use a multi-step selection process that will involve finalizing selection criteria, identifying a shortlist of candidates, thorough evaluation of candidates against the selection criteria, and then selecting the finalist for the designation.
Evaluation and selection of the Capital Country(ies) will be made using a set of evaluation criteria developed by the Selection Committee, such as:
• Level of science activity.
• Equality of payment systems.
• Funding for research conducted by female scientists.
• Funding for female entrepreneurs/CEOs of life sciences start-up companies.
• Contribution to the long-term strategy of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Science.
• Steps taken to achieving United Nations 2030 Development Agenda and its 17 global goals.
• The country’s plans to strengthen the capacity of the STI and creative sectors, including developing long-term links between the scientific, cultural, economic, and social sectors.
• The envisaged long-term scientific, cultural, social and economic impact, including urban development, that the title would have on the nominated country.