OWSD Latin America Chairs Convene to Strengthen Regional Collaboration and Address Structural Challenges
On 18 March 2026, Chairs of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) chapters across Latin America convened virtually to advance regional coordination, share progress, and address key structural challenges affecting their work.
The meeting brought together representatives from Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Honduras, Guatemala, Ecuador, and Costa Rica, with Cuba joining shortly after the session began. The discussion reflected both the diversity of the region and a shared commitment to strengthening inclusive and sustainable scientific ecosystems led by women.
A key highlight of the meeting was the upcoming CYTED capacity-building workshop, scheduled for 9 April, aimed at increasing the participation of Latin American researchers in international collaborative calls. Chairs emphasized the importance of strengthening regional networks to meet eligibility criteria and improve success rates in competitive funding schemes.
Participants also shared updates on the GenSIS Project, with several countries actively preparing or advancing proposals in response of the Call of Expression of Interest. The project’s flexible, bottom-up approach was recognized as particularly valuable for adapting to diverse national contexts. Chairs were reminded of the 31 March deadline for submission of expressions of interest.
In addition, the group discussed ongoing consultations on the OWSD Constitution, encouraging all chapters to contribute inputs on key areas such as membership structures, organizational objectives, and core activities. These contributions are expected to inform future governance and ensure that the organization remains responsive to regional needs.
Looking ahead, participants welcomed the announcement of an upcoming joint OWSD–International Science Council (ISC) regional call, focused on women-led innovation. The initiative is expected to support early-stage ideas through a simplified application process, including a short concept note and video pitch.
A central theme throughout the meeting was the urgent need to address financial sustainability challenges. Chairs highlighted persistent difficulties associated with reimbursement-based funding models, delays in disbursement, and institutional constraints faced by host organizations. These barriers, they noted, directly impact participation, equity, and the long-term sustainability of national chapters.
The meeting concluded with a strong call for greater regional articulation, including the exchange of best practices, peer support between chapters, and the exploration of new funding mechanisms. Key concerns and recommendations will be elevated to the OWSD Executive Board as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the organization’s operational model.
This regional dialogue reaffirmed the critical role of collaboration, adaptability, and collective advocacy in advancing women’s leadership in science across Latin America.
