The traditionally male-dominated field of cybersecurity is experiencing a gradual shift toward greater female inclusion. Currently, women represent approximately 25% of the workforce in this field, marking notable progress but there is still much work to do to achieve the desired (and already demanded) equality: data indicates that female representation in the cybersecurity was 31% in 2023. And, at a global level, although women continue to gain presence and currently reach a representation of 25% in the sector, compared to 20% in 2022, it is not expected that a global representation of 35% until 2031.
Retaining female talent remains a challenge in the cybersecurity sector, as only 25% of positions in this field are held by women, according to data from INCIBE.
It is crucial to implement specific programs that boost women's participation in technological roles. Additionally, it is essential to encourage interest and involvement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers from an early age. The gender gap is evident even at the university stage, where only 18% of graduates in these disciplines are women.
Today, there are women like Dr. Ann Cavoukian, known for being the creator of the Privacy by Design concept and one of the world leaders in privacy. Especially in Canada, where she is an authority often interviewed for privacy-related events. She holds a Ph.D. in psychology, specializing in Criminology, and her career and expertise have led her to be included in the top lists of leaders in cybersecurity, such as the ‘Top 25 most influential Canadian women’. She is also one of the ‘Top 10 Women in Security, Compliance, and Privacy’. Her recognition has reached a global position following the recent approval of ISO 31700 on Privacy by Design.
But unfortunately, to this day, women still face a huge pay disparity in the field of cybersecurity.
According to the "Cybersecurity Workforce Study", women value university degrees in cybersecurity and related areas 28% more than the 20% of men.
referencia:https://cyvatar.ai/women-in-cybersecurity/
For instance, workshops like The Cyber Women Challenge 2023 were created, establishing itself as a dynamic platform for the exchange of knowledge, offering inspiration to women interested in exploring the field of technology and cybersecurity. This workshop, specifically designed to foster and develop female competencies in this sector, managed to gather 33 participants from various sectors and 12 countries, who demonstrated their passion and commitment in each challenge, showcasing their determination to excel in the demanding domain of cybersecurity. With a call that attracted more than 2,000 women from different industries in Latin America.