Brussels, 2 November 2026 - The Women in Digital Index 2026, launched on 15 October during Digital Talent EU Days at Trinity Business School in Dublin, reveals persistent inequalities in women's participation in Europe's digital sector. Covering 30 indicators across 27 EU Member States and four benchmark countries, the Index tracks women's progression through STEM education, ICT education, digital employment and leadership.

The EU average stands at 49.9 out of 100, with Sweden (75.0), Finland (66.8) and Ireland (64.4) leading the rankings. ICT education records the lowest average score (42.6), highlighting a critical weakness in the digital talent pipeline. The findings provide policymakers, educators and employers with evidence to identify where women face the greatest barriers and where action is most needed.

The Index was one of the main highlights of Digital Talent EU Days 2026, held on 15–16 October and organised by Connecting Women in Digital and LEADSx2030, in partnership with the European Commission, the Irish Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and local partners. Across 33 sessions, the event explored how Europe can develop, attract and retain the talent needed for its digital future.

Building on its role as communication and dissemination coordinator for Connecting Women in Digital and network development leader for LEADSx2030, 28DIGITAL played a significant role in organising and promoting the event, bringing both initiatives and their communities together to address Europe's shared digital skills challenges.

Opening the event, Rehana Schwinninger-Ladak from the European Commission emphasised the importance of aligning digital education with employers' needs and ensuring women play a greater role in shaping and leading technology.

Three keynotes offered complementary perspectives on Europe's digital future. Salvatore Nigro, CEO of JA Europe, highlighted how early opportunities, curiosity and creativity help develop future talent. Bernie Foley, Vice President of Product Management at Workday, demonstrated how AI agents are transforming work while reinforcing human judgement. Closing the event, Dr Alessandra Sala warned that AI can reproduce existing inequalities and called for stronger policies and greater representation of women in AI leadership.

The event also addressed Europe's broader digital skills needs. The launch of the AISHA European AI Skills Academy highlighted efforts to strengthen AI talent, while sessions on cybersecurity, semiconductors and sectoral specialisms examined links between education and industry. Andrea Biancini, Head of Education Programs at 28DIGITAL, moderated a panel on the EU Talent Pool and attracting international talent.

The Women in Digital Index 2026 provides new evidence to inform policies and initiatives aimed at closing gender gaps, strengthening Europe's digital talent pipeline and ensuring women can participate fully in the digital economy.

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