100 Million Women and Girls to Join the Digital Economy: A Bold Vision for Gender Equality

Barcelona, March 4, 2025 – In a groundbreaking initiative launched at MWC25 Barcelona, the EQUALS Global Partnership for Gender Equality in the Digital Age has set an ambitious goal: to empower 100 million women and girls to actively participate in the digital economy over the next decade. With a renewed mission and vision, the partnership is driving global efforts to bridge the digital gender divide and ensure that women and girls are not left behind in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

A Commitment to Digital Gender Equality

The EQUALS Global Partnership, founded by leading international organizations including the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Trade Centre (ITC), UN Women, UN University, and the GSMA, is intensifying efforts to ensure that digital transformation is inclusive. With artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital innovations reshaping industries and societies, the need for equal opportunities for women in technology has never been more urgent.

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the crucial role of women in shaping the future of digital transformation. “As technology evolves faster than ever, successful digital transformation depends on women and girls being at the forefront of change,” she stated. “That’s why a renewed focus on empowering women innovators and policymakers is driving the new EQUALS Global Partnership.”

GSMA Director General Mats Granryd echoed this sentiment, noting that while AI and digital innovation present significant opportunities, they also risk deepening existing gender inequalities if proactive measures are not taken. “By reaffirming our mission, the EQUALS Global Partnership is ensuring that women and girls everywhere can fully participate in the digital economy, unlocking their potential and shaping the future of technology.”

Empowering Women and Girls Through Digital Innovation

EQUALS aims to place women and girls at the center of digital transformation by equipping them with essential digital skills, resources, and leadership opportunities. The initiative recognizes that empowering women in the digital sphere is not just about economic growth but also about fostering innovation, diversity, and inclusive development worldwide.

By leveraging a network of international organizations, governments, corporations, academic institutions, non-profits, and community groups, EQUALS will develop targeted programs that provide women and girls with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy. These efforts include advocacy for policy changes, fostering cross-sector collaborations, and designing educational initiatives tailored to bridge the digital skills gap.

A Global Call to Action

Structured around thematic workstreams operating on a two-year cycle, the partnership ensures flexibility to adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities. EQUALS’ initiatives align with key global frameworks such as the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the UN Global Digital Compact, and the Beijing +30 Review Process Outcomes, reinforcing its commitment to long-term, measurable impact.

As the world moves towards a future driven by AI and digital technology, ensuring gender inclusivity in this transformation is imperative. The EQUALS Global Partnership’s mission to empower 100 million women and girls is a significant step toward a more equitable and innovative digital world.