ARAB WOMEN AMBASSADORS SHAPING DIPLOMACY: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES - Historically, international diplomacy has been predominantly male-dominated despite the indispensable role women have played in strengthening foreign relations, sustaining universal peace and guaranteeing the protection of human rights. As of 2023, women continue to be underrepresented in the multilateral arena, holding only 20.54 percent of ambassadorial positions. This represents a major increase from the mere 0.9 percent in 1968.

Since the first appointment of a female Arab ambassador in 1933, the Arab world has shown progress, with women constituting 10 percent of the region’s ambassadors in 2022, some serving as permanent representatives to the United Nations. This change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of women’s equal and meaningful representation in foreign policy and systemic breaking of stereotypical perceptions of gender roles in the Middle East and North Africa. However, the region still falls behind the global average for women’s participation in diplomacy.

The WIn Fellowship, part of the Atlantic Council’s empowerME initiative, hosted an event to highlight the journeys of Arab women ambassadors. Current and former ambassadors shared their experiences, reflecting on the obstacles and opportunities that have shaped their understanding of the political capabilities and leadership styles of Arab women. They explored the challenges in the diplomatic field and how Arab countries are addressing these issues. This event celebrated Arab women leaders and aimed to inspire the next generation to break new ground in diplomacy.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 04/25/2024