Women in Economics

Women have a long and prestigious history in economics, pioneering the field and solving some of society’s greatest problems.

Economics and finance offer insights into many of the challenges that women face both in the workplace and at home. It provides frameworks to navigate, understand and address issues such as the lack of parity in pay, access to education, career progression and caring responsibilities.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day, on 8 March, calls for us to inspire inclusion. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) industries, including economics, are known for having a significant gender gap. In 2023, women made up only 28% of the UK’s and 7% of the European Union’s STEM workforce. There is also a substantial underrepresentation of women in leadership roles in STEM industries, for example, the financial services industry had only 30% women in senior management roles in 2022.

By supporting young women who are interested in studying or are planning to embark upon a career in STEM, together, we can be part of the change. This next generation of young women in STEM have already begun to overcome gender barriers and biases, and the women who are already working in STEM can help them navigate the next steps in their careers.

We’re hosting a webinar on 26 March for young women who are studying STEM-based subjects in higher education or at graduate or post-graduate level, to introduce them to Oxera’s women in economics. Join us to hear their experiences and thoughts on the opportunities and barriers presented by the current gender imbalance, what more can be done to improve inclusion, and why equality in STEM improves outcomes for business and society.