Chinese-Dutch Women in Science: Narrowing the Gender Disparity in Research
The global proportion of female researchers reached 41 percent in 2022, a notable increase from just 28 percent in 2001, particularly within the health sciences sector. This information was revealed in the "Gender Equality in Research and Innovation...

These statistics were presented at a seminar held on Friday, which focused on the contributions of women in science. The event was jointly organized by China's Ministry of Science and Technology and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women that took place in Beijing in 1995. It aimed to inspire more women to embark on scientific research careers.
Despite the progress made, traditional research evaluation frameworks often fail to recognize the full contributions and impacts of female researchers. This lack of acknowledgment perpetuates gender inequality and creates substantial challenges within the research ecosystem.
"The Netherlands and China recognize this challenge, and both countries are committed to promoting gender equality in science," commented Roderick Wols, Minister Plenipotentiary and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Beijing.
The seminar featured keynote speeches and panel discussions that highlighted the significant achievements of female scientists engaged in Sino-Dutch collaborative research projects. It provided career guidance for researchers and exchanged strategies and best practices to further support women in science.
Sino-Dutch scientific collaboration boasts a rich and productive history. At the event, speakers discussed advancements in joint projects, including research on adult pancreas stem cells for diabetes treatment conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research, as well as initiatives in advanced battery technologies.
A panel discussion wrapped up the event, addressing both the benefits and challenges faced by female scientists.
"Do not let her choose what she should do. Let her choose what she likes," advised Li Hongnan, a professor at the Institute of Agricultural Environment and Sustainable Development at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
Thomas Evans for TROIB News
Discover more Science and Technology news updates in TROIB Sci-Tech