Empowering Women in Diplomacy: AGDA Hosts Pioneering Dialogue with Women Ambassadors in the UAE

AGDA Hosts Groundbreaking Dialogue with Women Ambassadors in the UAE

In a historic move marking the celebration of International Women’s Day, the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) hosted a pioneering roundtable discussion focused on Women, Diplomacy, and Leadership, featuring distinguished women ambassadors stationed in the United Arab Emirates. This event is the first of its kind, drawing together influential leaders from various nations, including H.E. Dr. Annalee Babb from Barbados, H.E. Maria Belovas from Estonia, and H.E. Alison Milton from Ireland.

Addressing the pressing issue of gender imbalance in diplomatic leadership, the roundtable revealed alarming statistics from the 2024 Women in Diplomacy Index by AGDA, which notes that only 21 percent of global ambassadors are women. Dr. Sara Chehab, AGDA’s Senior Research Fellow, highlighted the systemic barriers hindering women’s representation in the diplomatic realm. “We must recognize and tackle the challenges women face in securing support and opportunities within the foreign service,” she stated.

The ambassadors engaged in critical dialogue about the obstacles female diplomats encounter and shared strategies for empowerment, including recommendations for improving recruitment and retention practices. They also stressed the significance of a balanced approach to achieve the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, particularly as its 25th anniversary approaches in 2025.

His Excellency Nickolay E. Mladenov, AGDA’s Director General, emphasized the importance of diversity in diplomacy, proclaiming that the academy remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of women diplomats through comprehensive research, training, and policy initiatives. “By amplifying the voices of women ambassadors, we move closer to ensuring that diplomacy reflects the diversity and perspectives of all members of society,” he affirmed.

The success of this dialogue marks a significant step towards achieving gender equality in diplomacy, setting the stage for future discussions and initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable diplomatic community.