Empowering Women in the Digital Era

Cybersecurity has become a global priority as digital transformation accelerates and threats continue to grow. Once seen as a narrow technical field, it has become a core part of national security. But solving today’s complex challenges takes more than technology as it requires a wider range of voices and experiences. Women remain underrepresented in the field, and their inclusion is essential to building smarter, more resilient digital systems.

This challenge is especially clear in Eastern Partnership countries like Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova, and Ukraine. The demand for cybersecurity professionals keeps growing, but the talent pool remains unbalanced. This gap doesn’t just reflect inequality, but it also limits the strength and depth of our digital defences.

One reason for this gap is that cybersecurity is still often treated as an afterthought in digital development. Many governments focus on launching digital services but forget to build strong cyber protection from the start. True resilience means making cybersecurity a core part of everything—from public platforms to everyday digital skills. Initiatives like the Women in Cyber mentorship program are helping to change this.

Supported by the EU-funded Moldova Cybersecurity Rapid Assistance 2.0 project and implemented by the e-Governance Academy, the program offers technical training, workshops, and mentorship. It helps women build skills and confidence while creating a supportive community that pushes back against gender barriers in cybersecurity.

What makes the program stand out is its holistic approach. It doesn’t stop at technical skills, it also covers topics like social engineering and tackles the deeper issues that have kept many women out of the field. By boosting confidence, offering role models, and building networks, the program supports a new generation of women in cybersecurity.

Building on these efforts, the Eastern Partnership Women in Cyber Forum, held in Chisinau this March, brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to share knowledge and strengthen cross-border connections. Beyond talent development, such initiatives foster inclusive workplace cultures and create educational pathways for women and girls in cybersecurity.

As the EU celebrated International Women’s Day, Moldova’s growing commitment to empowering women in cybersecurity stood out. Their voices and contributions are shaping the future of digital resilience.

The forum was organised with support from the European Union through the Moldova Cybersecurity Rapid Assistance 2.0 and Improving Cyber Resilience in Eastern Partnership Countries 2.0 projects, implemented by the e-Governance Academy (eGA).