HRH Prince Zain El-Hashemite's UN Address

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning and happy 10TH International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Today, as we mark the 10th anniversary of this remarkable event, I find myself reflecting on the journey we’ve taken together. Ten years ago, I stood before you as a young voice, inspired by the possibility of change and hopeful for a future that celebrates the brilliance of women and girls in science.

As we gather here, I would like to take a moment to recognize those who spear headed the resolution behind the February 11 International Day For Women and Girls in Science; the Royal Academy of Science International Trust, the Government of the Republic of MALTA, and the two great minds who initiated and worked tirelessly to realize this goal, Her Royal Highness Dr. Princess Nisreen El-Hashemite and Her Excellency Minister Helena Dalli.

I would also like to thank the United Nations and all the governments, partners, and agencies who have made this day possible, not just as an event, but as a testament to our collective commitment to equity and progress.

From its inception, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science was envisioned as a call to action to overcome challenges, as well as a continuous reminder of the work that we need to do.

In these years, we have made progress. Policies have been adopted, campaigns launched, and stories of extraordinary women in science have reached audiences they might never have before.

The achievements of brilliant minds, young and old, have energized policy makers to reimagine the importance of education and inspired millions to believe in the possibilities of science.

However, I must also acknowledge the gaps that persist. While some barriers have been lowered, others remain firmly in place. Promises of equity and inclusion are too often left unfulfilled.

Resources, instead of empowering, are wasted on endless discussions and empty gestures.

I cannot help but think back to the simple words I spoke years ago, talk is cheap. And while it is easy to lose hope when progress feels slow; CHANGE, no matter how small, still matters. It is a monument to those who continue to fight, those who continue to teach, and those who continue to lead.

For my generation, the past decade has been a lesson in resilience. We have learned to push forward despite the challenges left to us by previous generations. We have learned to speak out, hold leaders accountable, and to ensure that this movement does not fade into history as a mere moment in time.

Years ago, I stood on this stage and said, “speeches, spoken in rooms like these, have served only to divide, blinding us from the true issues at hand.” And, sadly, much of that remains true. The failures of leadership, the misuse of resources, and the inability to tackle systemic inequities continue to hold us back.

The state of millions of women, girls, and the underprivileged has remained stagnant, and in some cases, has even declined. Global statistics speak loud and clear, these inequities do not only exist in poor areas of the world, but also in the wealthiest and most advanced countries.

In less than four years, world leaders have effortlessly allocated trillions of dollars to fund wars, yet they always seem to struggle when it comes to finding the funds to build schools and invest in education.

These failures are not abstract, they have real consequences. They manifest in young girls who are told that science is not for them, in communities that lack access to education or qualified educators, and in the bright minds lost because they were never given the opportunity to shine.

At this point, we must ask ourselves: what do we want the next ten years to look like? Will we continue to allow empty promises, and half-baked ideas define our efforts, or will we finally rise to meet the challenges before us?

The answer, as I’ve continued to reiterate, lies in real, measurable, collective action. It is not enough to dream of a better future, we must create it. To do so, we must embrace collaboration across every part of society. We must re-energize families to lead their lives, empower teachers to teach, excite the private sector to fund and partner with scientists, and drive policymakers to put public interest first.

We need governments and institutions to prioritize equitable access to education and resources, not just rhetorically, but in reality. We need investments in science and technology that serve humanity, not just the interests of a privileged few.

It is my generation’s time. We will solve the problems of the world, not just inherit them and pass them down once again. To us I say, do not just think of solutions, implement them. Share your ideas, collaborate, and do not let the brilliance of your mind be dimmed by the challenges you face.

To the leaders of today, as I have said time and time again, your words are no longer enough. We want accountability. You need to use your power for the betterment of humanity, not personal gain. Your legacy will ONLY be measured by the actions you took to ensure a better and safe future for all.

Together, we can make the next decade a defining one, not just for women and girls in science but for the world as a whole. Together, we will innovate for PEACE.

Let us carry with us the lessons of the past ten years, with our triumphs reminding us of what is possible and our failures teaching us what must change.

Imagine a world where every girl and boy, regardless of where they are born, has the opportunity to explore the limitless possibilities of science. A world where brilliance is nurtured, not stifled, and where innovation is driven by inclusion, integrity, and purpose.

This is not an unattainable vision; it is within our grasp, but it requires each of us to commit to the work it entails. It requires courage, persistence, and unity.

To the youth in this room and beyond, continue to challenge the status quo. Let your voices rise above the noise, let your ideas shape the narrative, and let your wise actions define the future.

To those who lead, set an example worthy of the generations that follow. Set the necessary foundation and your legacy will stand as a beacon of hope and progress.

And to everyone here today, remember that this movement is bigger than any one of us. It is a collective effort, and its success depends on our shared contribution to a better tomorrow.

With that, I’d like to leave you all with an invitation to reflect on the progress we’ve made, the challenges that lie ahead, and the role you will play in shaping the next decade. Together, we can ensure that this day is not just a commemoration, but a catalyst for lasting change.

Thank you to MALTA,

Thank you to the Royal Academy of Science,

Thank you to the UNITED NATIONS.

And finally, thank you to all of you.