The Women in Nuclear (WiN) Middle East Chapter was officially launched today by the United Arab Emirates. The Chapter was introduced at COP28, along with other prominent figures from the nuclear energy sector, by Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), Dominique Mouillot, President of WiN Global, and Sama Bilbao y Leon, Director-General of the World Nuclear Association. The WiN Middle East Chapter, which other regional nations are welcome to join, was initially joined by Egypt.
WiN is a non-profit group for women who are interested in or currently employed in the nuclear energy and technology industries. WiN Global, whose members are committed to a shared objective of disseminating knowledge and increasing awareness about the advantages of nuclear energy while advancing gender balance, includes the recently established Middle East Chapter. There are about 4,800 members of WiN Global spread over more than 107 nations.
In the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme, women make up around 20% of the workforce and are essential in a variety of fields, including engineering, reactor operations, nuclear safety, and other technical specialisations. Since its founding, ENEC has worked to promote Emirati women's achievements, and as a result, they are now leading the UAE's efforts to achieve net zero by 2050. The government of the United Arab Emirates has demonstrated a resolute commitment to gender equality and empowering women in the clean energy sector and beyond.
WiN raises awareness of the importance of nuclear energy and cutting-edge technology by fostering professional development and networking opportunities that support knowledge, increased cooperation with peers internationally, professional growth, and career progression.
One of the main topics of discussion at COP28 is the role of women and gender balance in combating climate change. The UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme offers a compelling example of female empowerment, diversity, and inclusion.