Equity in science leadership is a policy accelerator, not a concession.

Women scientists are no longer only contributors to knowledge production; they are increasingly shaping the strategic direction of science, technology, and policy. This session examines the role of women in scientific decision making and policy formulation on equal footing with men, emphasizing leadership, governance, and long-term institutional impact. Drawing on experiences from the Middle East and the Arab world, Africa, and Europe, we highlight how women scientists have influenced national research priorities, large-scale scientific infrastructures, as well as international science diplomacy initiatives. These examples demonstrate that inclusive leadership is not merely a matter of equity, but a prerequisite for resilient institutions, credible policy making, and sustainable scientific progress. We will attempt to reflect on structural enablers and persistent barriers, and calls for a shift from symbolic representation toward genuine authority and responsibility in decision making. A forward-looking perspective on how empowering women in science leadership strengthens policy outcomes locally, regionally, and globally, will be discussed.