Latvia has the highest proportion of female scientists and engineers in the European Union
Latvia leads the EU with a 50.9% share of female scientists and engineers, according to Eurostat data for 2024.
According to the latest data from Eurostat, Latvia boasts the highest percentage of women among scientists and engineers in the European Union (EU), reaching 50.9% in 2024. This marks a significant achievement for the country in promoting gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Following Latvia, Denmark has 48.8%, Estonia 47.9%, and Spain 47.6%, indicating a trend of increasing female participation in these professions across Europe.
The overall share of women in the EU's science and engineering workforce is 40.5%, showing a steady increase from 3.4 million in 2008 to 7.9 million in 2024, reflecting ongoing efforts to encourage women's involvement in technical fields. The data highlights that women are increasingly taking up roles in knowledge-intensive sectors and services, although their representation in manufacturing remains comparatively lower, signaling a need for continued focus on gender parity in all areas of the workforce.
This improvement in gender balance in STEM fields could have significant implications for the future of innovation and economic development in Latvia and the EU. Increasing female representation in these highly skilled roles can lead to diverse perspectives, drive creativity, and contribute to a more inclusive economy that leverages the talent of all individuals, regardless of gender.