Women in digital tech: overcoming diversity rollbacks

Diversity in tech has seen significant progress, but recent global rollbacks threaten gender diversity in digital technology. However, under the current US administration, companies and institutions have publicly scaled back their commitments to gender diversity programmes. For women in digital tech in the Netherlands, reports like thesecan feel like a step backward. But should we be discouraged? We don’t believe so! Now, more than ever, we must stay focused on our progress and continue to focus on inspiration and education. This International Women’s Day, we should be adopting a positive mindset to help ourselves and other women in digital technology to #AccelerateAction.

Table of contents

• The Dutch digital tech industry remains a stronghold for inclusion

1. Systemic support of equality
2. Lasting recognition of the business case for gender balance and diversity
3. Strong and resilient communities

• Staying Motivated: How to keep driving change

1. Focus on what’s working
2. Keep engaging and advocating
3. Strengthen your network
4. Stay resilient and keep working

• Conclusion: The future is still bright

 The Dutch digital tech industry remains a stronghold for inclusion

Despite the turbulence elsewhere, the Netherlands remains a stronghold for diversity in tech. The country’s progressive policies, government-backed initiatives and support networks continue to promote gender balance in digital industries. Here are a few reasons why women in tech in the Netherlands should remain hopeful:

1. Systemic support of equality

Dutch consultancy firm specialising in organisational culture, Aaim, advises that even though there are mandates for rollbacks sprouting from the US, European companies are likely to be less quick to abandon these initiatives compared to their American counterparts due to EU-wide legislation. An example of the legislation that remains in effect includes the EU’s Gender Balance on Corporate Boards Directive, which mandates that at least 40% of non-executive director positions in listed companies be held by women by 2026. Another example is the new pay transparency laws that aim to close the gender pay gap, ensuring fair wages for women in tech roles. "Rather than abandoning D&I initiatives, companies will likely adjust their approach by setting measurable goals or launching smaller, more effective programs," Aaim predicts. Closer to home, it bodes well that the Dutch government has consistently supported gender diversity in the workforce through policies such as parental leave benefits, flexible working arrangements, and tax incentives for companies prioritising inclusivity.

2. Lasting recognition of the business case for gender balance and diversity

Companies that embrace gender diversity continue to outperform those that don’t. "McKinsey’s Diversity Wins report (2020) showed that diverse teams make better decisions, drive stronger financial performance, and foster innovation. Dutch companies continue to recognise that diversity isn’t just about ethics—it’s a business advantage. In the 2024 RightBrains DIGIDIVA Magazine, Andrea Kraus, Chief Commercial Officer of the Eurofiber Group, commented: “In the dynamic realm of ICT companies, pursuing gender balance and radical inclusiveness are no longer a matter of choice,  but it’s the essence of progress.” Phaedra Kortekaas, Managing Director Benelux at SAS, also recently commented on the advantages of a gender balanced workforce. In her RightBrains role model story, she mentions that everyone should bring their authentic selves to a gender-balanced table to raise valid questions, offer diverse perspectives, and bring their natural or learned strengths for the good of the technology. If local tech leaders continue to value gender diversity in digital technology, the onslaughts of international pressure may not be as acute.

3. Strong and resilient communities

Women in tech in the Netherlands are not alone. The growing number of mentoring  programmess, conferences, networking groups, and community-driven platforms ensures that support remains available. Initiatives like RightBrains and other women-in-tech initiatives actively create opportunities for women in digital fields, including that of discipline-specific initiatives like Low-code ladies, Women in Cybersecurity (WICCA) and Women in Quantum Development (WIQD).

Staying motivated: how to keep driving change

It’s natural to feel frustrated by the global “noise” around D&I rollbacks, but here’s how we can stay inspired and keep pushing forward:

1. Focus on what’s working

Instead of dwelling on setbacks, highlight success stories of women in tech making an impact. Celebrate role models, companies and allies that champion diversity, and initiatives making a tangible difference. Consume inspirational content – and share it with peers and like-minded colleagues.

2. Keep engaging and advocating

Speak up, get involved in diversity-focused digital technology communities, and mentor the next generation. The more women and male allies advocate for inclusion, the higher gender balance will be on the agenda for companies – especially when budgets are allocated.

3. Strengthen your network

The pwer of community is undeniable. By actively engaging in professional networks, women in tech can find allies, career opportunities, and a strong support system. RightBrains has a community group called RightBrains United, which consists of more than 700 women in digital technology. Join the conversation and share insights, learning, and questions with these valuable community networks.

4. Stay resilient and keep learning

Upskill, reskill, and stay ahead of industry trends. Women in tech who continuously develop their expertise will always be in demand, ensuring they have the leverage to shape the industry from within. The RightBrains Academy, for example, provides excellent skills development and mentoring training programmes, as well as programmes focused on digital leadership development and a masterclass to accelerate diversity in leadership.

Conclusion: The future is still bright

Yes, challenges exist. But if history has shown us anything, it’s that progress is never linear. Setbacks may occur, but the long-term trajectory of gender diversity in digital technology remains strong. The Netherlands continues to be a leader in inclusion, and the determination of women in the field here is evident when considering initiatives like the Equals Role Model campaign 2025 and the influx of high-impact female tech leaders featured as RightBrains role models. According to RightBrains founder, Geke Rosier, the market is volatile at the moment, but we encourage IT leadership to keep their eye on the prize and to keep investing in initiatives to bridge the gender gap in the digital technology industry.“Rather than seeing global D&I rollbacks as a signal to give up, let’s view them as fuel to keep moving forward. Now, more than ever, diverse voices, skills, and leadership are needed to build an inclusive future in digital technology.

The momentum is still ours—let’s keep pushing forward and accelerate inclusion!