To mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO) has officially launched the Women and Girls in Science Challenge (WGS)—a unique opportunity for young women across NATO countries to help imagine the future of global security.
A new kind of challenge: thinking beyond today
The 2026 edition introduces an innovative foresight approach, inviting participants to explore fictional disruption scenarios designed to test the resilience of the modern world. While imagined, these scenarios are based on real-world vulnerabilities and emerging threats, encouraging bold, creative, and strategic thinking in security and defence research.
One of this year’s featured scenarios is “A Day Without Space”, which examines what could happen if the world suddenly lost access to space-based capabilities such as communication, navigation, and observation systems.
The five foresight scenarios exploring the fictional “A Day Without…” are:
- A Day Without Space, exploring the consequences of losing access to space-based capabilities such as communication and observation;
- A Day Without Power, examining widespread energy disruption and its cascading effects;
- A Day Without the Internet, imagining the impact of a prolonged loss of global connectivity and digital services;
- A Day Without Antibiotics, confronting a scenario where antibiotic supply is halted and countries find themselves unable to treat common bacterial infections; and
- A Day Without Boots on the Ground, considering security challenges in an extreme environment where physical military presence is no longer possible.
Participants are invited to choose a scenario and submit a research proposal (up to 1,300 words) suggesting innovative ideas to anticipate, mitigate, or adapt to these disruptions.
Who can apply?
The challenge is open to women aged 18–35 who are nationals of NATO member countries and are currently enrolled in—or have completed—university-level STEM studies (including social sciences). Applicants may be students (Bachelor, Master, PhD), early-career researchers, or aspiring professionals interested in STEM and defence.
Applications must be submitted individually.
Selection and final event
Up to 12 finalists will be selected by NATO STO experts based on novelty, relevance, feasibility, coherence, and societal impact. Finalists will be invited to present their ideas in person at NATO Headquarters on 9 June 2026, where a panel will choose three overall winners.
Recognition and opportunities
All finalists will be formally recognized by the NATO Chief Scientist and welcomed into STO’s professional alumni network, STEM Forward. The three winners will receive additional career-building opportunities, including engagement with STO staff and exposure to NATO’s scientific community.
The deadline to submit applications is 11 March.
__
Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest innovation news and more sent to your inbox.
