While public awareness of gender inequality has increased, there is a growing anxiety around gender bias in AI. In fact, only 28% of people were aware of AI's gender bias. After learning about it, over half (51%) expressed concern. Furthermore, 66% believe governments should introduce regulations to ensure AI is free from gender bias.  

Additionally, only two-fifths of people view the overrepresentation of men in leadership roles within AI as problematic (40%). A quarter think that AI often portrays women in misogynistic ways (24%). 29% think that AI creates more accurate visual representations of men than women.  

These were the results of a study by TEAM LEWIS Foundation in support of HeforShe, a solidarity movement for gender equality created by UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality, and the Empowerment of Women.

The study also found that 17% have experienced gender bias while using AI tools. Currently, only a third of people believe companies and AI developers can create systems without gender bias (32%). Gen Z have the most confidence followed by Millennials (43% and 37%, respectively).

These generations are also the most concerned about the potential societal impacts of gender bias in AI: 59% of Gen Z and 54% of Millennials. Over half of respondents (51%) share this worry. Many believe that gender bias could contribute to workplace inequality (37%); reinforce stereotypes (35%); and erode trust in AI (34%).

Recent developments have sparked fears and a sense of insecurity around the world. Many (47%) are concerned that current geopolitical issues have overshadowed progress towards gender equality. Although this is down from 57% in 2024. Gen Z (79%) and Millennials (77%) make up those that are most worried.

Globally, those in China (89%), Singapore (78%), Spain (77%), France and Germany (76%) are the most alarmed.


There is also growing concern that the current political climate could reduce fairness across organizations and governments. This view is predominantly shared by people in China (64%) and the United States (53%).




Many recognize the role that organizations must play in pushing forward gender equality. Three quarters of people believe that companies should invest more in supporting women in their workforce and leadership positions (74%).

This is understandable, considering that only a fifth of individuals say that their company has a female CEO (22%), compared to 20% in 2024 and 19% in 2023. Though this percentage is on the rise, progress is slow. The overall number of women in senior management roles has also reduced in 2025 (53%) from 56% in 2023 and 2024.

When pursuing job opportunities, only a fifth of women say they faced no obstacles (19%) compared to a quarter of men (26%). The top barriers cited are a lack of roles that offer flexible arrangements (33%), family responsibilities (32%) and unequal pay (30%). Women are also more likely to feel they were not promoted or hired due to their gender than men (34% vs 23%).

Two in five women want men to actively advocate for equal leadership opportunities and challenge gender-based discrimination.They also want to see men take a more active role in closing the gender pay gap and championing flexible work policies.

People would like to see flexible working policies provided (39%) and advocacy for more women in corporate leadership roles (34%).

40% want to see governments create networking opportunities for women entrepreneurs. 37% want to see grants and funding provided specifically for female entrepreneurs, as well as mentorship programs to nurture female-led companies. Such actions will inspire and empower other women.

Additionally, two-fifths of employees think that their company’s efforts to foster a supportive and inclusive workplace culture are sufficient. More believe that, although they are satisfactory, more can be done.


Companies that actively try to meet employee expectations and make improvements will see enhanced engagement. Employed people cite experiencing satisfaction, greater engagement and increased creativity and innovation (44%) when participating in diverse and gender-proportional teams.

Whether working from home or in the office, the workplace is where many spend the majority of their time. Though it may be challenging at times, workplaces can support employees to reach their potential.

32% of women have reconsidered their place of employment because of their company’s in-office policy, compared to 27% in 2023. Of these women, 45% cite lack of flexibility as a top reason for reconsidering their employment, and 40% cite a lack of work-life balance.

52% of women say flexible working arrangements would make it easier for them to participate in the economy.

Individuals believe organizations or governments can make it easier for women to work and achieve success by offering flexible working arrangements (46%) and access to childcare support (43%). Close to a third of women agree that childcare support would make it easier for them to participate in the economy (30%).

A similar percentage stated that education and training opportunities would allow them to participate (28%). For meaningful progress to be made in these areas, business leaders and those in positions of power must listen to and address the needs of women.

Sexist language, behavior and ideologies are also affecting people around the world. Of the countries surveyed, people in China (49%), Singapore (47%) and the UAE (48%) are most likely to observe sexist rhetoric online. This compares to two-fifths of the global population (38%).


Close to a third of people believe that men are treated better in online spaces (30%). This sentiment rises to 40% among Gen Z audiences. This group is also the generation most likely to report seeing sexist rhetoric online (62%).

When women come across such content, common reactions include blocking or muting the user (39%) or reporting the behavior (38%). This statistic is up from 35% and 31% in 2023 respectively. 37% of men state they report, block or mute the user. Concerningly, over a third say they ignore the behavior (35%).

Yet, 72% of women and 69% of men are concerned about rhetoric related to sexism on social media. Many want to see men do more to support women in online spaces. Close to two in five would like them to listen to and learn from those who have experienced sexism.

Additionally, people want to see men actively call out sexist comments (38%) and be allies to women in speaking out against sexism online (37%).