Gender diversity issues persist in tech despite efforts

A recent study by Tech Beyond Gender has highlighted the ongoing challenges of gender diversity within the information technology sector, revealing limited progress in addressing gender biases and discrimination.

Conducted by Meena Satishkumar, Solution Architect and founder of Tech Beyond Gender, the research surveyed close to 200 women and gender diverse individuals across a variety of technical roles. The 2025 findings show persistent barriers, with more than half of respondents contemplating leaving their current roles, and over a third considering exiting the tech sector entirely.

"We surveyed 187 women last year and when I look at how those results compare, sadly the story is much the same. It's disappointing to see that in 2025 so many intelligent, brilliant women and gender diverse people are facing these kinds of hurdles in the workplace," Satishkumar commented.

Respondents pointed to a perceived superficiality in diversity initiatives within their organisations, with 45% noting a lack of active promotion of gender diversity efforts.

"Just because you say something in theory doesn't mean that it happens in practice. That disconnect between stated commitments and actual practices really undermines employee confidence and organisational reputation," said Satishkumar. This sentiment is echoed across different levels within organisations, highlighting a sharper decline in diversity representation in senior roles.

"Several interviewees emphasised that although entry-level roles might be more diverse, as one moves up the chain of command the representation of women and gender-diverse professionals sharply declines especially in senior technical roles," she noted.

The study also highlighted dissatisfaction with pay transparency, with 70% of respondents expressing concerns, and nearly half feeling their compensation was inequitable. Despite this, many workers chose to remain silent about pay gaps due to fears of negative repercussions.

While there was a slight reduction in reports of gender-based microaggressions from 48% to 40% compared to last year, interviews indicated that the issue remains widespread across the sector. "These microaggressions are insidious and include the normalisation of subtle biases like interruptions, idea appropriation and cultural assumptions," explained Satishkumar.

Dr Amanda Sterling, a gender equity advocate and leadership consultant, noted, "The surface level attention to gender diversity is a huge factor, and through my own research I've found that women - especially in leadership roles experience greater emotional, mental and physical labours as they navigate conflicting demands and gendered expectations." She warned of the risk of organisations losing talented individuals unwilling to endure these conditions.

The report leads to the publication of ten recommendations from Tech Beyond Gender, aimed at fostering systemic change. These include embedding inclusivity in HR practices, promoting equitable pay, implementing robust microaggression policies, and enhancing training initiatives. Satishkumar emphasised the potential benefits for organisations adopting these solutions.

"By adopting these succinct yet comprehensive recommendations, organisations can build an integrated, equitable culture that enhances employee satisfaction, drives innovation, and strengthens the overall organisation's reputation in the competitive tech industry," she stated.

Satishkumar concluded by underlining the urgency for change given the current skills shortage within the tech sector, asserting, "With the sector already grappling with a huge skills shortage we can't afford to keep alienating and driving half of the potential workforce away. We can't continue the way that we have."