Gender equality and gender parity are the key debates in the contemporary world. A detailed participation analysis on women in nuclear security has been undertaken by different stakeholders i.e., the International Atomic Energy Agency, The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of International Nuclear Security, and the World Institute of Nuclear Security. The analysis recommends that in the last two decades, there has been a paradigm shift in attitude towards women's participation in the nuclear field. However, despite these improvements, proven capabilities and valuable contributions by women, they remain underrepresented, constituting less than 25% of the workforce in the nuclear security policy-making domain. A report by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency has been published in 2023, titled ‘Gender Balance in the Nuclear Sector’, which highlights that women only represent less than a quarter of the nuclear workforce. The number is even less in STEM fields due to the persisting stereotypes that discourage women from entering the field. If we talk about the Global South, women are nearly distinct from nuclear security policymaking, and bilateral and multilateral decision-making. However, many women are working in radiological security at different management positions, but it is not acknowledged because of implicit biases against women. Therefore, initiating a Podcast on Women in Nuclear Security was critical to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions women have made in this field throughout history. At the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, a project has been initiated, which is in its pilot phase to hear and celebrate the successes and challenges faced by women in nuclear security. It is also vital for female early career professionals and scholars in radiological security from around the world to have female role models in this field. This research will be based on qualitative research methods with interviews as its main area of investigation. The paper aims to explore the ways to mitigate tight-knit networks, lacking strong mentorship or support systems for women newcomers. It also aims to highlight the achievements of prominent women in radiological security that can inspire younger generations and demonstrate the diverse expertise and leadership potential women bring to the field. By studying the current landscape and advocating for change, a more inclusive and equitable future for women in nuclear security and radiological security can be created, ultimately strengthening global safety and non-proliferation efforts.
Year
2024
Abstract