Diverse and inclusive marine science is now recognized as
essential for addressing the complex and accelerating challenges facing marine social-ecological systems (Blythe and
Cvitanovic, 2020; Lawless et al., 2021). The United Nations
(UN) Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development
(2021–2030) identifies gender diversity as integral to achieving its objectives of “the science we need for the ocean we
want” and realizing the Sustainable Development Goals. For
example, SDG 5.5 specifically aims to ensure that there are
equal opportunities for women’s leadership at all levels of
decision-making in political, economic, and public life (UN,
2015). The importance of gender equality has also been reflected in other global initiatives, including the UN Women’s
programmes on leadership and participation (UN Women,
2022)
