Member states formally adopted April 21 as the International Day of Women in Industry, marking the first global observance dedicated to celebrating women’s contributions to industrial transformation.

The declaration was announced during the final session of the summit as part of the Riyadh Declaration, a comprehensive document addressing challenges and opportunities shaping industrial progress in the Global South.

The declaration covered youth entrepreneurship, technology transfer, supply chain advancement, and the empowerment of women in industrial sectors.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef, who presided over the 21st session of the UNIDO General Conference, welcomed the adoption of the new international day.

He said the decision reflects a growing international understanding of the importance of enhancing women’s participation and leadership in future industrial systems.

The conference highlighted that women across the world continue to play an essential role in innovation, industrial competitiveness, manufacturing development, and research-led growth.

Speakers noted that the global observance will serve as a platform to promote visibility, recognize achievements, and encourage policies that support women in industry.

Alkhorayef emphasized that the initiative aligns closely with national strategies that aim to expand women’s roles in advanced industries, technology-driven sectors, and industrial entrepreneurship.

He said efforts to develop an inclusive environment are central to transformation goals linked to long-term industrial diversification.

Delegations participating in the summit stated that the empowerment of women is key to strengthening global supply chains and supporting technological adaptation.

They stressed that women-led enterprises and research teams are increasingly central to solving industrial challenges and advancing digital capabilities.

The adoption of April 21 also aims to mobilize governments, organizations, and private sectors to take concrete steps in expanding opportunities for women.

Officials noted that the day will serve as a reminder of the importance of equitable access to training, finance, innovation tools, and leadership positions.

The Riyadh Declaration underscored the need for industrial development to generate broad social and environmental benefits.

It encouraged member states to deepen partnerships that accelerate sustainable growth, reduce inequalities, and support industrial resilience for future generations.

Summit discussions addressed gaps that have historically limited women’s participation in industrial fields, including resource constraints, limited representation in technical roles, and underdeveloped support ecosystems.

Participants called for policies that promote educational pathways, encourage female entrepreneurship, and create networks that elevate women’s skills and leadership.

UNIDO officials emphasized that past approaches to industrial development have not always created inclusive or environmentally responsible outcomes.

However, they expressed optimism that new global commitments and rapidly evolving technologies can enable more sustainable and socially beneficial industrial models.

Manuel Mattiat, UNIDO’s chief of cabinet, said that global knowledge, technological capacity, and financial resources are more than sufficient to address long-standing industrial challenges.

He stressed that international cooperation and policy coordination are essential to achieving meaningful progress across diverse regions.

Speakers encouraged governments to use the newly designated day as an opportunity to launch initiatives that inspire young women to explore industrial careers.

They added that investing in women’s skills will strengthen global competitiveness and contribute to balanced, inclusive industrial growth.

The conference concluded with broad agreement that empowering women in industry supports stronger innovation systems, enhances economic diversification, and improves national development outcomes.

Organizers said the adoption of the International Day of Women in Industry represents a long-term commitment to elevating women’s roles in shaping the future of global industry.