EQUALS Global Partnership Tackles Gender Digital Equality by 2035

Bold Steps Toward Digital Gender Equality

In a powerful announcement made at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, the EQUALS Global Partnership reaffirmed its commitment to achieving digital gender equality by the year 2035. The partnership, which comprises various organizations including the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), UN Women, and the GSMA, aims to empower women and young girls across the globe through digital innovation.

A Vision for the Future

The newly launched vision focuses on placing women and girls at the forefront of digital transformation, especially during this technological age where innovations such as Artificial Intelligence are proliferating. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the Secretary-General of the ITU, emphasized the critical role women must play in this realm, stating that their presence is essential for the success of ongoing digital transformation. The EQUALS initiative aims to equip 100 million women and girls with the necessary digital skills, resources, and opportunities in the next decade to actively contribute to the digital economy.

The Partnership's Structure

EQUALS operates through thematic workstreams, each lasting two years, allowing the coalition to adapt quickly to emerging challenges and opportunities. This structure will enable the members to advocate for policy changes, foster collaborations between public and private sectors, and launch targeted programs aimed at supporting females in technology. By doing so, the partnership addresses the digital disparity that often sidelines women and girls.

Mats Granryd, the Director-General of GSMA, echoed this sentiment by stating that the rise of digital innovation represents unprecedented opportunities to build a more inclusive society. However, he warned that without proactive measures, women and girls might risk being left behind in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The renewed commitment from EQUALS aims to ensure that women fully participate in the digital economy and shape future technological advancements.

Aligning with Global Frameworks

Furthermore, the EQUALS initiative aligns itself with major global frameworks, such as the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and the UN’s Global Digital Compact. By synchronizing their work with these established goals, the EQUALS partnership underscores the importance of global collaboration in tackling gender inequality.

In conclusion, the EQUALS Global Partnership is embarking on an essential mission that seeks to empower and uplift women and girls in the digital sphere. The drive toward gender equality in technology is not only a social imperative but a necessary step for inclusive economic development. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the participation of women and young girls may serve as a catalyst for broader societal transformation.

For more information about the EQUALS Global Partnership and their initiatives, please visit EQUALS in Tech.