The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has taken a major step towards promoting gender equality across its global activities. The Executive Council recently approved an updated Gender Action Plan designed to integrate gender considerations into weather, water, and climate services. This plan aims to ensure that climate warnings, disaster responses, and scientific services are inclusive and reach all sections of society.
The new plan focuses on three main areas: improving planning by including gender-sensitive goals and data; ensuring fair representation of women in leadership roles, with a target of at least 40% female participation in decision-making bodies; and building skills by offering training and leadership programs for women and young girls interested in science and technology fields.
While there have been improvements in recent years, women remain underrepresented in key roles. Currently, only about 27% of members in WMO’s Executive Council are women. The plan hopes to change this by offering mentorship programs and encouraging the education of girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The plan has received support from WMO’s regional branches, with leaders in Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific calling for more women in senior management positions. The organization will also launch an online community for sharing resources and strategies among gender equality coordinators worldwide.
In addition, outreach campaigns are planned to inspire young women to consider careers in meteorology, hydrology, and climate science. Mentorship programs pairing young female professionals with experienced leaders will help build confidence and career growth.
The WMO’s efforts are part of a broader push to make climate services more effective and inclusive. Research shows that involving women in decision-making leads to better outcomes, especially for communities vulnerable to extreme weather and climate-related risks.
Through these initiatives, the WMO aims to make gender equality a permanent part of its structure, ensuring that climate-related services benefit all sections of society equally.