The Right to Science: Another Tool to Repair Gender Inequalities in Sciences and Research

Abstract

Although the human right to science was included in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 75 years ago, women are still disadvantaged in participation, access and contribution to sciences, and in the enjoyment of their benefits. Most inequalities are caused by persistent factors such as gender stereotypes and biases, but the COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated them even further. This chapter shows that the right to science, in combination with the prohibition of all forms of discrimination, clearly implies that States have positive obligations to ensure that women enjoy their rights to equally access, participate in and contribute to sciences and research. The elimination of discrimination, including gender stereotypes, is a core obligation that States should respect, protect and fulfil under all circumstances, including in times of crises. This may also require special (temporary) measures in order to finally close the seemingly ineradicable gap between women and men in sciences.

Keywords: right to science, equality, discrimination, gender, stereotypes, UNESCO

JEL Classification: K33