The IAU Women in Astronomy (WiA) Working Group (WG) is actively addressing the global challenges faced by women in the field of astronomy. By communicating concerns, raising awareness, and analyzing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender equality in research, the group is dedicated to bridging the gender gap in Astronomy. The overall goal of the IAU WiA WG include the collection of information, proposal of measures, and initiation of actions to define a Gender Equality Plan (GEP) to promote equal opportunities for achievement between women and men in astronomy, both within the IAU and on a global scale. Functioning as a federation of national Women in Astronomy organizations, the WG establishes connections and facilitates information exchanges worldwide, fostering an equal opportunity, diverse, and inclusive working environment.


To achieve these objectives, the WG has established a four point action plan: 


These actions are implemented under a comprehensive GEP that addresses various challenges faced by women researcher, including bias, reduced career prospects, the leaky pipeline phenomenon, lack of role models, mentoring opportunities, childcare issues, harassment, discrimination, and unfair working conditions. The WG is committed to take targeted actions and resolving specific issues to create a more inclusive and equitable landscape for women in the field of astronomy.