The minister of energy, mining and mineral resources, Sanja Bozhinovska participated at the central event of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) marking International Women’s Day under the motto „No Economy Wins Running at Half Capacity: The Economic Power of Gender Equality“. The event was held in a hybrid format at the EBRD headquarters, and was opened by the president of the bank, Odile Renaud-Basso.
At the beginning of the event, the economic reality driving development was highlighted- economies cannot reach their full potential if half of the population is limited in possibilities for participation.
The EBRD president, Odile Renaud-Basso emphasized that gender gaps directly affect productivity, resilience, and the innovation capacity of economies.
In her speech, minister Bozhinovska connected the importance of gender equality with the green energy transition:
„North Macedonia is moving toward an ambitious transformation of the energy sector–expanding the capacity for solar and wind energy, modernizing the system and creating a cleaner and more resilient energy system. But, this transition must be fair and inclusive. Women play a key role in shaping this transformation. Greater participation of women in the energy sector-from engineers and entrepreneurs to policymakers and executive leaders–strengthens decision-making, drives innovation and builds more resilient institutions“, Bozhinovska highlighted in her speech.
The minister stressed that promoting women in the energy sector is not just a question of equality, but a strategic necessity for the success of the green transition. This means more women in technical professions, more women leading renewable energy projects, and more women shaping national energy policy.
Minister Bozhinovska also referred to a successful example from her Ministry:
„I am proud that the Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources is probably one of the few institutions in the country whereas women are the majority among employees–78 women compared to 69 men. In a sector traditionally considered as „male“, this is proof that „women are ready and capable to lead“.
She also pointed out the concrete results from the just transition trainings conducted by the EBRD in the country whereas out of 620 participants, 222 were women– a strong indicator that women are increasingly present in the workforce driving the energy transition.
When asked how institutions can support more women leaders, the minister responded:
„First, create real pathways, not symbolic opportunities. Second, invest in women from early age, especially in STEM education and technical careers. And third–finance women-led projects. When women lead projects, they not only deliver results, but also open the door for many others to follow“.
The minister emphasized that the partnership with international institutions such as the EBRD is key to advancing inclusive climate investments:
„Our new Strategy for gender equality and human capital is focused on the areas whereas these gaps are most visible and whereas action can make a difference: the green transition, the digital economy and issues of voice and influence“.
The minister underlined that energy transition can reach its full potential only if it is inclusive and if women are leaders in the process of green transformation:
„If we want a successful and sustainable energy transition, we must ensure that women not only participate in the sector, but also help to lead and shape its future“.
Minister Bozhinovska sent a message that investing in women is not only a matter of fairness, but also a strategic necessity for the future of the energy sector: when women lead, they pave the way for many others, and the entire economy progresses.
With regards,
Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources
