Human capital is required to embed digital technologies in production, but significantly more men than women become iInformation and communication technology (ICT) specialists, and this gap persists across countries. Integrating more women and other underrepresented groups in ICT development will bring to bear the diverse perspectives that are needed to create a more inclusive digital future. National strategies and targeted educational programmes can encourage women to develop the skills needed in digital-intensive sectors and combine personal and professional responsibilities. 

Women and girls are often less likely to pursue, or have more limited access to, educational opportunities in a highly digitalised economy, limiting their career options. Bridging digital gender divides not only requires removing barriers to connectivity, but also empowering women and girls with the right mix of skills to succeed in a digital world. In the early years, curriculums must overcome gender biases and stereotypes regarding math and science. In the middle years, girls and young women should be actively encouraged to undertake STEM studies. And in later years, women should have equal access to retraining and reskilling services. 

Advanced digital technologies like AI, including generative AI, bring exciting opportunities to increase productivity and economic growth. However, without appropriate guardrails, harmful stereotypes and biases embedded in algorithms can continue to prompt gender discrimination and limit women’s economic potential. Women are still underrepresented in AI research and development and are increasingly targets of gendered mis- and disinformation campaigns, the risks of which can be magnified by generative AI tools.