EQUALS Global Partnership Launches New Mission to Achieve Digital Gender Equality by 2035

EQUALS Global Partnership's Vision for 2035

The EQUALS Global Partnership has unveiled a bold and ambitious new mission aimed at achieving digital gender equality by the year 2035. This announcement was made during the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Spain, a significant platform for discussions surrounding technology and innovation. With a focus on empowering women and girls, the initiative seeks to ensure that a staggering 100 million women and girls will actively participate in the digital economy within the next decade.

This reaffirmation of commitment comes from founding partners of EQUALS, which include the International Telecommunication Union, the International Trade Centre, UN Women, UN University, and the GSMA. Collectively, they are dedicated to bridging the gender digital divide, particularly at a time when technological advancements, especially in artificial intelligence, are rapidly transforming the landscape.

Empowering Women and Girls Through Technology

The newly articulated vision positions women and girls at the forefront of digital transformation. By providing tailored capabilities, resources, and opportunities, EQUALS aims to enable these groups to become vital contributors to the digital economy. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the Secretary-General of ITU, emphasized the urgency of this mission, stating, “As technology evolves faster than ever, the success of digital transformation hinges on ensuring that women and girls lead the way.” The focus not only aims at fostering innovation but also emphasizes the importance of women in policy creation.

Mats Granryd, the CEO of GSMA, echoed these sentiments, remarking, “The growth of AI and digital innovation presents unprecedented opportunities for building a more inclusive world. If deliberate actions are not taken, women and girls risk being left behind.” By re-affirming its mission, the EQUALS Global Partnership aims to secure full participation for women and girls in the digital economy, unleashing their potential while shaping the future of technology.

Action Plans and Collaborative Efforts

EQUALS’ structured action plan will revolve around thematic workstreams, which will operate on a two-year cycle. This gives them the flexibility to adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities effectively. The partners will continue advocating for policy changes and fostering collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors. Specific programs will be implemented to support women and girls in technology-related fields.

In aligning with comprehensive global frameworks, EQUALS connects its work with key initiatives such as the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the UN Global Digital Compact, and the Beijing +30 Review Outcomes. This strategic alignment not only underscores its commitment to gender equality but also reinforces collaboration within a wider global context.

As we move towards a future that increasingly relies on digital solutions, the EQUALS Global Partnership stands poised to lead transformative efforts. It is a collective step towards a future where women and girls are empowered to lead in digitalization, ensuring their voices and talents contribute to innovations that benefit entirety of society.

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