Empowering Women in Cybersecurity: Navigating Challenges for a Resilient Digital Future

Abstract

In a global context characterized by a fast digital transition and a shortage of technical skills, promoting women in information and communication technology (ICT) and cybersecurity is becoming essential to reduce the workforce gap in the field and also to ensure a resilient and inclusive digital economy. Women, an underutilized source of talent, can bring innovative and various contribution, contributing to address challenges in ICT and cyber security. This article explores the issue of underrepresentation of women in cybersecurity, where they occupy only 25% of the roles available globally, despite recent initiatives aiming to change this status quo. The research methodology is based on a qualitative approach, using documentary analysis of relevant European policies and reports and articles. The research aims to answer the question “How can empowering women in cybersecurity, by overcoming existing barriers and building on European initiatives, contribute to a safer and more resilient digital future?” The study examines the structure and impact of European initiative, alongside with challenges faced by women in accessing and maintaining a career in this field. The results highlight that the European initiatives, such as Women4Cyber and Girls and Women in Digital, play a key role in bridging the gender gap in ICT and cybersecurity. Mentoring and educational programs developed under these initiatives have a positive impact on women’s participation in cybersecurity, but barriers related to gender bias and limited access to equal opportunities still exist. The contribution of this study is to highlight the importance of empowering women in cybersecurity and how the obstacles they face can be addressed through dedicated initiatives, essential for creating a supportive environment for women in this critical field. The study focuses on the European initiatives and future research may consider analyzing the initiatives globally. Furthermore, interviews with women cybersecurity experts may be conducted, thus providing deeper insight into the global dynamics of gender in cybersecurity. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/dri2024.07; UDC: 004.056.53:349.2-055.2; JEL: J24, J16, I28, O33