Bahrain leads in women’s space sector participation

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The National Space Science Agency (NSSA) has announced that Bahrain topped United Nations indicators for women's participation in the space sector, as highlighted in a study by the "Space for Women" programme of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.

The study, Landmark Study on Gender Equality in the Space Sector, unveiled at the 75th International Astronautical Congress, included data from 53 space agencies and organisations worldwide.

Leadership

The study revealed that women make up 30% of the workforce in public sector space organisations but hold 19% of board positions and 21% of leadership roles.

Women are underrepresented in technical, policymaking, and astronaut roles but lead in education, outreach, human resources, and administration.

Supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea, the study also incorporated contributions from Canada and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) in developing a gender mainstreaming toolkit for the space sector, offering practical solutions to promote gender equality in space policies and practices.

Data

Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of NSSA, highlighted Bahrain’s active participation in the study by providing data and involving female employees.

He reaffirmed the NSSA's commitment to gender equality, reflecting the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Dr. Al Aseeri noted Bahrain ranked first in Asia Pacific and third globally in women’s representation in public sector space organisations, fourth in female leadership, and fifth in administration, with women exceeding 50% across these indicators.