On 22 December 2015, the General Assembly decided to establish an annual International Day to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science and technology, through Resolution A/RES/70/212. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science celebrated on 11 February, is implemented by UNESCO and UN-Women in collaboration institutions and civil society partners that aim to promote women and girls in science. This Day is an opportunity to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. Gender equality is a global priority for UNESCO, and the support of young girls, their education and their full ability to make their ideas heard are levers for development and peace. Tackling some of the greatest challenges of the Agenda for Sustainable Development -- from improving health to combatting climate change -- will rely on harnessing all talent. That means getting more women working in these fields. Diversity in research expands the pool of talented researchers, bringing in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. This Day is a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology communities and that their participation should be strengthened. MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL “If we are to be able to address the enormous challenges of the twenty-first century – from climate change to technological disruption - we will need to rely on science and the mobilization of all our resources. It is for this reason that the world must not be deprived of the potential, the intelligence, or the creativity of the thousands of women who are victims of deep-seated inequality and prejudice. On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2020, UNESCO is calling on the international community, States, and individuals to work together so that equality in the sciences and other fields can finally become a reality. Humanity has everything to gain– and so does science”. —  Audrey Azoulay, Director-General, Message on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2020