Embracing gender equality in standardization  

ISO’s commitment to gender equality is a cornerstone of our mission to develop standards that foster innovation and make lives easier, safer and better for all. Recognizing the vital role that gender equality plays in sustainable development, ISO has been focusing on gender issues and gender equality through an organizational Gender Action Plan since 2019. This work underlines our commitment to advancing inclusivity and gender equality in standardization, and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls (SDG5). 

 

Why gender equality matters in standardization 

Gender equality is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for creating robust, effective and relevant standards. Diverse perspectives lead to more innovative solutions, and when both men and women are equally represented, the standards we develop are more likely to meet the needs of all users. Gender-balanced participation enhances the quality and applicability of our standards, driving progress and innovation across industries. By embracing gender equality, ISO members not only support a fairer society but also contribute to the advancement of technology, environmental sustainability and global economic growth.