International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES)

INWES is a global network of organizations of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), reaching over 60 countries worldwide. INWES is a not-for-profit corporation governed by a Board of Directors consisting of Directors representing organization, corporate, University/Institute, and individual memberships. To build a better future worldwide through full and effective participation of women and girls in all aspects of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. At the World Conference on Science for the 21st Century, convened by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Council for Science in Budapest, Article 90 was adopted encouraging special efforts to be made toward the establishment of an international network of women scientists and engineers. Through the support and encouragement of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, and a successful grant from UNESCO, 20 women representing 10 countries and 8 organisations met in Canada, May 2001, to explore the creation of such a network. In July 2002, the International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists (ICWES12) delegates supported the creation of the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists (INWES). The vote from representatives of 30 countries was unanimous. The following April 2003, INWES was incorporated as a non-profit corporation under the laws of Canada.