Every year on June 24, the International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) is commemorated to pay tribute to and acknowledge the exceptional achievements of women in the realms of diplomacy and decision-making worldwide. Diana Abgar, an Armenian ambassador, holds the distinction of being recognized as the first female diplomat of the 20th century, making her a trailblazer in this field. The observance of IDWID serves as an important reminder of the significant contributions made by women in shaping international relations and promoting diplomacy.
International Day of Women in Diplomacy Theme 2023
The theme selected for the Inaugural Forum of this year’s International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID), organized by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), is “Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development.”
- This theme underscores the significance of enhancing women’s involvement in decision-making processes and diplomatic positions.
- The theme recognizes that increasing the participation of women in these roles is vital for empowering them and achieving gender equality, which are essential for realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations.
- By focusing on this theme, the IDWID aims to draw attention to these important issues and highlight their relevance in shaping a sustainable future.
History of International Day of Women in Diplomacy
The International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) is a relatively new observance, having been established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2022.
- The resolution, which was adopted by consensus, recognizes the indispensable role of women in diplomacy and reaffirms that their participation, on equal terms with men and at all levels of decision-making, is essential to the achievement of sustainable development, peace and democracy.
- The date of 24 June was chosen for IDWID because it is the birthday of Diana Abgar, who is credited as the first female diplomat of the 20th century.
- Abgar was born in Armenia in 1899 and served as the country’s ambassador to France from 1920 to 1925. She was a pioneer in the field of diplomacy and her work helped to pave the way for other women to enter the profession.
- The first IDWID was celebrated in 2023.
- The theme for the inaugural year was “Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development.”
- The day was marked by a number of events and activities around the world, including conferences, roundtables, and exhibitions.IDWID is an important opportunity to recognize the contributions of women in diplomacy and to promote gender equality in the field.
- It is also a chance to reflect on the challenges that women still face in diplomacy and to work towards a more inclusive future.
Women who have made significant contributions to diplomacy
- Diana Abgar, the first female diplomat of the 20th century
- Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, the first woman to serve as President of the UN General Assembly
- Eleanor Roosevelt, a leading advocate for human rights and social justice
- Madeleine Albright, the first woman to serve as US Secretary of State* Hina Rabbani Khar, the first woman to serve as Foreign Minister of Pakistan
- Angela Merkel, the first woman to serve as Chancellor of Germany
These are just a few of the many women who have made a difference in the field of diplomacy. IDWID is a day to celebrate their achievements and to continue to work towards a more gender-equal future.
Significance of International Day of Women in Diplomacy
The IDWID is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in diplomacy, to raise awareness of the challenges they face, and to commit to taking action to increase their participation in decision-making.Here are some of the significant contributions of women in diplomacy:
- Negotiating peace: Women have played a key role in negotiating peace agreements, including the Oslo Accords, the Dayton Accords, and the Good Friday Agreement.
- Strengthening international relations: Women have helped to strengthen international relations by promoting dialogue and understanding between countries.
- Surviving hardships and danger: Women diplomats have often faced hardships and danger in their work, but they have persevered and made significant contributions to international peace and security.
- Facilitating intercultural linkages: Women diplomats have helped to facilitate intercultural linkages by promoting understanding and cooperation between different cultures.
The IDWID is an important day to celebrate the achievements of women in diplomacy and to raise awareness of the challenges they face. It is also an opportunity to commit to taking action to increase the participation of women in decision-making.
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