The Role of STEM and Green Jobs

This UNDP-OECD regional study underscores that the green transition in Europe and Central Asia will not be just or effective without addressing gender inequalities in STEM education and green employment.

Drawing on national labour force surveys and qualitative research in Albania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan, the study shows that women remain underrepresented in green jobs, holding just one in three positions. Women in rural areas and those with lower education levels face the highest barriers to entering or transitioning into green occupations.

The report applies a life-course STEM pipeline framework to identify key points where women exit the path to green jobs. It also examines the skills and wage gaps that hinder transitions from high-emission (“brown”) jobs to greener roles. Findings show that women are significantly more likely than men to be excluded from green opportunities due to skills mismatches, structural barriers, and gender norms.

The study offers recommendations to strengthen gender-responsive education, labour market policies, and data systems—ensuring that the green transition is inclusive, just, and accelerates progress toward sustainable development.