The power of action: advocating for gender-inclusive standards
In a world where standards shape our daily lives, from the products we use to the environments we navigate, the voices of women in standardization are more crucial than ever. Historically male-dominated, the field of accreditation and standards development is beginning to see a shift, thanks to the relentless efforts of advocates who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. Women make up nearly half of the labor market, yet their representation in standardization remains disproportionately low. The call to action is clear: to truly reflect the diversity of the society it serves, standardization must be inclusive of all women, regardless of race, age, ability, or identification. This inclusivity not only enhances the effectiveness of standards but also ensures that they protect and benefit everyone equally.
We’re reflecting back on some great conversations we have featured on SCC’s channels, to help illuminate the necessity of diverse representation and how we can continue to move forward.
Eddy Ng
Professor of Organizational Behaviour and Smith Professor in Equity and Inclusion in Business
“Standards affect our lives through the products, processes, and services we consume and undertake. They also ensure our safety and well-being in what we do, where we live, and how we play. But inequities in society exist, different individuals experience life differently even when they use the same products, perform the same work, and are exposed to the same environment or stimuli. Some individuals experience bias and discrimination, others face barriers they cannot overcome by themselves, and some are more vulnerable to risks than others. These individuals may lack the agency or capacity to protect or care for themselves from harm and injury.
Standards are important because they can assist with correcting societal biases and ensure that the content, requirements, and application of standards benefit everyone despite their individual and group differences.”
Michelle Parkouda
Manager, Research at SCC
“The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Declaration for Gender Responsive Standards notes that women are under-represented in standards development.
We see that with SCC’s member data, women currently represent 25% of our mirror committee members. While we have argued at the UNECE, and elsewhere, that the onus should not be on women to ensure that a standard is gender-responsive, the presence of women on committees does have a positive impact. Research in other sectors has shown that when women’s participation is higher, products are more likely to be gender responsive.
Our research has also shown that when there are women on SCC’s mirror committees, the committees perform better (…)Gender diversity in standards development can contribute to more effective committees and better standards for everyone.”
What does it mean for standards to be gender responsive? Although often technical in nature, standards can have bias depending on the views represented when they are developed. When standards represent diverse viewpoints, they are more likely to be responsive to the varying needs of those who use them.
Sofia Jaspers-Faijer
Manager, Technical Committees & Member Services at SCC
“Data is crucial in standards development; however, most products and technologies are designed using anthropometric databases that have limited representation from women. The example of the crash test dummy has often been referenced, as an example that despite the reductions in fatalities due to car accidents, research shows that women are 73% more likely to be seriously injured or die in a car accident than men. This is because the data used has historically been referencing men’s anthropometry.
(…)Look around the table and ask yourself, who is missing? Standardization needs to reflect the diversity it serves. If women are not inclusively present, it’s time to make change.”
So how can we ensure representation on standards committees and in the world of standardization? Get involved, share the word, and encourage youth – especially young girls - to be inspired and participate.
Gillian Koh
Manager, Climate Change and Sustainability
“Many of the industries that we work in have been historically male dominant. Be confident and don’t doubt yourself – take pride in your knowledge, education and experience. Find your support and allies, seek out a mentor and a women’s professional group in your industry. If a group doesn’t exist, start one! Other young women will be in your place one day and it will be your turn to help the next generation of women in your field.”
Zakiah Kassam
Chair of the ISO Technical Committee on Environmental Management (ISO TC/207)
“ Traditional ways of working and thinking have lagged behind the urgency of our environmental challenges. Working with youth in the application of ISO standards – especially young women – has been exhilarating for me; their speed, agility, and drive to lead inspire hope for a sustainable future.”
The journey towards gender-responsive standards is ongoing and requires a collective effort. This article highlights just some of the people in the standardization world who are working towards shaping standards that are equitable and inclusive.
SCC is committed to fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued, at the national and international level. By actively involving women in the development of standards, we not only ensure that diverse perspectives are represented but also create more effective and inclusive standards. Together, we can build a future where standards protect everyone equally.
