Women's Day in International Diplomacy Celebrated Globally

Kathmandu. Today, Women's Day in International Diplomacy is being celebrated with various programs in different countries around the world. The United Nations General Assembly started celebrating this day every year on June 24 since 2022.

According to the world body, women in diplomacy are not only participants in international affairs but also peacebuilders, advocates for equality, and leaders shaping the future of global cooperation. Their voices, perspectives, and leadership are indispensable for addressing today's complex global challenges and building a more inclusive, just, and sustainable society.

In the context of diplomacy transforming according to the demands of an interconnected world, ensuring women's full, equal, and meaningful participation at all levels of decision-making processes has been emphasized not only as a matter of equality but also as a fundamental requirement for effective global governance. It is also considered important for the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The UN has stated that when women participate in decision-making levels, diplomacy better reflects the representation of the people and is more capable of promoting lasting peace, sustainable development, and human dignity.

Women have been continuously making significant contributions to dialogue, consensus building, conflict resolution, and international cooperation in various diplomatic missions, multilateral organizations, and international negotiations. Their leadership has bridged national priorities and global challenges, helping to advance human rights, security, and shared prosperity.

According to the UN, this day serves as a powerful reminder that inclusive voices and experiences are necessary for peace and progress. It also calls for honoring the achievements of women diplomats, removing barriers, expanding opportunities, and strengthening efforts to empower future generations of women to lead in international affairs.

Historically, women have been largely excluded from diplomatic and international decision-making processes, but over time, they have broken through barriers and expanded their presence in diplomatic services, international organizations, and peace processes. However, it is mentioned that women's representation is still low in many areas and further efforts are needed to ensure equal participation.

Meaningful participation of women in peacebuilding, mediation, and conflict resolution leads to more inclusive and sustainable outcomes. Gender equality and women's empowerment are fundamental elements for sustainable development and building inclusive societies.

It is stated that the presence of women as permanent representatives and ambassadors within the UN system is also low, and their participation in the higher echelons of diplomatic services is still weak. It has been urged that all parties ensure equal opportunities, noting that the path to leadership for women remains challenging due to structural, institutional, and cultural barriers.

Meanwhile, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed has emphasized that effective global governance is not possible without the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in diplomacy, stressing the need to include women in decision-making processes.