Within the second category were suggestions aimed at making more explicit the gender dimension of sustainable development, and ensuring that this gender dimension is taken into account in determining research priorities and designing development programmes. The gender dimension pervades most aspects of the way in which science impacts on society, including agriculture, health, environment, industry, employment, local knowledge systems and many ethical issues. Although there is a need for more research on the topic of gender and science, there is enough already known for action to be taken now. One of the main messages from the thematic meeting was that the status quo is not an option. Change is urgently required.
Action needs to be taken by many organizations and parts of society.
These will include national governments, international organizations, the scientific community, NGOs, employers and individuals. Action must be targeted at the particular needs of each country. To define these needs and to develop appropriate action plans for solving local problems each government should establish its own mechanisms. Donor agencies can then provide assistance to help implement the national plans and strategies. The regional preparatory meetings organized by Unesco have clearly demonstrated the value of regional approaches, especially for developing new science curricula which are not gender stereotyped.