Barriers to the collection of gender-disaggregated data in ocean science

The importance of collecting baseline gender disaggregated data is well acknowledged in science communities, including ocean science. However, the collection of gender disaggregated data is not always actioned or prioritized in organizations. This paper analyzes barriers to the collection of gender disaggregated data in the context of ocean science. The data analyzed in this paper relate to three research projects under the Programme called “Empowering Women in the United Nations (UN) Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development”. These projects collected secondary and primary data about gender equality from ocean-related intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as well as universities and research institutions in Kenya. To analyze barriers to the collection of gender-related data, researchers’ observations and reflections recorded in field notes and research diaries were used for analysis. To supplement the analysis, IGOs and IGOs’ narratives in their efforts to collect gender-disaggregated data were also analyzed, which highlights the importance of leadership and management to facilitate a systematic data collection about gender in ocean science communities. The paper concludes that a systematic approach to collect gender-related data can be facilitated by gender equality strategies and action plans which are the main deliverables of the Programme.