WMO Boosts Gender Equality Efforts with New Focal Point and Action Plan
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is stepping up its efforts to promote gender equality and inclusivity. Secretary-General Celeste Saulo has stressed the importance of integrating gender considerations into every decision, with the support of Regional Association Presidents and the appointment of Dr. Cécile Siewe as the new Executive Council Gender Focal Point.
WMO's commitment to gender equality is evident in its action plan, which focuses on Strategic Planning, Governance, and Capacity Development. The organization aims to leverage existing activities and coordinate efforts across its constituent bodies to achieve this goal.
Extreme weather and climate events disproportionately affect women and children, who often have limited access to adaptive tools and decision-making roles. To address this, WMO is working to elevate more women to management groups and inspire youth in meteorology careers through mentoring programs and outreach efforts.
Despite progress, women remain underrepresented at senior levels within WMO. Of the 37 Executive Council members, 73% are male, and a similar disparity exists in other bodies reporting to the EC. Dr. Siewe, the first woman to hold the Gender Focal Point position, will work to advance gender inclusion at the highest governance level.
With the appointment of Dr. Kim Niska to the Executive Council and Dr. Mariam Tidiga's call for sustained national measures, WMO is taking concrete steps towards gender equality. By mainstreaming gender considerations and supporting women in meteorology, WMO seeks to create a more inclusive and representative organization.
