SHAPING THE FUTURE



How it started



1968 - Present | A Legacy of Equity in Science



RASIT begins its mission to advance equal rights in science, supporting women and girls across academia, public institutions, private sectors, and international cooperation.



Building Foundations for Equity



RASIT strengthens and broadens scholarships, capacity‑building programmes, mentorship initiatives, economic empowerment projects, and funding mechanisms to advance women’s participation in science, arts, diplomacy, and policymaking, and in addressing global challenges.



Persistent Global Disparities Identified



Despite decades of effort, international reporting shows women hold only 28% of scientific roles worldwide, revealing a lack of political commitment and a significant loss of talent across sectors.



2015 | A Bold Vision For Global Change



RASIT recognizes the urgent need to invert the pyramid of representation and advances a global vision to position women scientists as agents of change within the international community.



2015 | Adoption of UN General Assembly Resolution 70/212



RASIT co-facilitated, together with the Republic of Malta, the landmark establishment of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (11 February), which was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly.



2016 - Present | Global Momentum Accelerates



RASIT serves as the main coordinator and organizer of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Collaboration with United Nations entities and Member States, and IGOs continues to expand: More than 155,000 initiatives worldwide inspire girls and women to pursue scientific careers. Support from men and boys increases significantly. Women’s representation in science rises from 28% to 30%, marking measurable progress, and many more.



Strengthening Political Will and Multi-Stakeholder Commitment



Endorsement of outcome documents by Governments and intergovernmental organizations demonstrates stronger political will. Girls’ enrolment in STEM higher education has increased significantly however, women continue to leave scientific careers at disproportionate rates, underscoring the need for sustained and targeted action.


Human-Centered Science for Sustainable Development



Studies by the RASIT Sustainable Development Studies Center and the Women in Science International League reveal that challenges and opportunities differ widely across and within countries, underscoring the need for national and local leadership by women in science.



A Comprehensive Approach to Equity



RASIT’s work continues to focus on identifying obstacles faced by women and girls, addressing systemic barriers, retaining women in scientific careers, and advancing a human centered approach that integrates social and cultural dimensions essential for socio economic sustainable development.



2020 | Launch of the World Capital of Women and Girls in Science



RASIT establishes a global initiative to nationalize equity in science, supporting countries in accelerating equality, diversity, and inclusion in science, technology, and innovation by 2030 and beyond. The initiative empowers women and girls as contributors, leaders, and agents of change in advancing sustainable development at national and local levels.



Awarded for “Transformative National Leadership in Equity and Scientific Innovation”



  • Highlight the contributions that science, technology, and innovation make to peace, prosperity, and inclusive, sustainable socio-economic development.
  • Raise the international profile of designated countries and further their collaboration with other countries to promote sustainable socio-economic development.
  • Enhance the image of women in science – both internationally and in their own countries. This includes nurturing and celebrating the contributions that women in science make to global development and to the socio-economic development of their own countries, under their respective strategies and priorities.
  • Promote girls’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
  • Accentuate the features of science that we all share to increase the world’s citizens' sense of belonging to a global community, which is science.


Mechanisms of Implementation and Recognition



Governance

Managed by an independent international council led by multidisciplinary members comprising globally recognized and politically neutral experts. Current Chair: Dr. Belen Carrillo‑Rivas


Application

Countries submit their application to be considered for the title of World Capital Country of Women and Girls in Science.


Designation Process

The International Council reviews all applications and selects the country that will hold the title of World Capital Country. Number of Countries Up to three countries per year, each representing different global regions, may be designated.


Duration of Title

The title World Capital Country of Women and Girls in Science is held for one year.


Capital Country Responsibilities

The designated country develops and implements a year‑long program of scientific, social, and economic activities aligned with the goals of the World Capital of Women and Girls in Science Initiative.



Distinctions of the World Capital Awards



Official World Capital Award

Presented to the Head of State or Head of Government of the designated country. A high‑level delegation from the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) and the Selection Committee formally presents the specially crafted World Capital of Women and Girls in Science Award to the Head of State of the designated country.


HRH Prince Mohammad bin King Faisal (I) of Iraq El‑Hashemite Royal Medal of Science, Technology, and Innovation

The Royal Academy of Science International Trust awards its Founder’s Royal Medal of Science, Technology, and Innovation, to outstanding women in science from the designated World Capital Country of Women and Girls in Science. The Royal Medal is presented during the official awards ceremony held at the end of the title year.


Special Awards: The Excellence Recognition Awards

The Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT) presents its Excellence Recognition Awards to individuals, institutes, organizations, private‑sector entities, governmental bodies—including cities—and other contributors from the designated country.

These awards honor services, contributions, efforts, and commitments that advance and support the designated country in its work to promote equity and inclusion across all fields of science and the arts, as well as partnership for socio‑economic sustainable development.Nominations for these awards are submitted by the designated government to RASIT.​



We are not merely observers of the future we are its architects. By forging pathways for the next generation of women in science, we are crafting a legacy that will echo through time. Every day, in every moment, we hold the pen that writes the future history: one of courage, innovation, and unwavering determination…. Together, we inspire and uplift, creating a world where the brilliance of women in science illuminates the path for all to follow.



HRH Princess Dr. Nisreen El-Hashemite​

the Founder, World Capital of Women and Girls in Science

Executive Director, Royal Academy of Science International Trust



Global Postal Address: Dag Hammarskjöld-Box 20160, New York, NY 10017, USA
Global Voicemail: +1-917-503-3868 | Email: secretariat.worldcapital@rasit.org



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