For centuries, women have played a critical role in diplomacy, yet their contributions were often overlooked. Today, more and more women serve as heads of mission in strategically important postings throughout the world, such as the USA and China, and play leading roles in multilateral organisations. Despite numerous challenges, women’s influence in the field of international relations is growing in recognition. Women break barriers, bring immense benefits, and make a difference in diplomacy. Their leadership styles, expertise, and priorities broaden the scope of issues under consideration and the quality of outcomes.

The Securing a Seat at the Table: Women in Diplomacy event, bringing together eminent guest speakers and attracting numerous attendees, was opened by EU Ambassador Pedro Serrano who emphasised the importance the European Union and the European External Action Service (EEAS) gave to gender equality. Ambassador Serrano added that one of the most important elements and targets of President Ursula von der Leyen’s mandate was ensuring gender parity in key leadership positions of the European Union. The Ambassador assessed the fine balance of gender equality within the EEAS, stressing the fact two out of three heads of EEAS were female, namely Baroness Catherine Ashton and Federica Mogherini. Ambassador Serrano added that although 32% of EEAS heads of mission were female, more work needed to be done to achieve the institution’s gender-equality goals.

Following Ambassador Serrano’s opening remarks, the Ambassador of Romania, Laura Popescu, reflected on her achievements in her role as Chair of the Women in Diplomacy London network. Later on, Sally Axworthy, Deputy Director and Head of Negotiations and Peace Processes Department in the FCDO’s Office for Conflict, Stabilisation and Mediation, Dr Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of Gambia, Sophie Katsarava, Ambassador of Georgia, and Natalia Royo, Ambassador of the Republic of Panama, spoke about their professional experiences, career advancements, and balancing heavy workload with family life. In the Q&A session, the speakers addressed issues ranging from women-only lists to making unavoidable compromises in family and work life. The event ended with closing remarks by Deputy Head of Delegation Nicole Mannion.

In June 2022, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 June of each year the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. A resolution (A/RES/76/269), adopted by consensus, reaffirmed that the participation of women, on equal terms with men, at all levels of decision-making was essential to the achievement of sustainable development, peace, and democracy. 

Discover more about the EEAS’s work on diversity and equality and its WomEn DIplomats Network here.

Discover more about the event in the London Calling EU podcast.