FOR A MORE PEACEFUL, ADVANCED AND SAFE WORLD

By Ina Stašević, Zagreb, Croatia:  According to UN data, out of 193 member states, only 34 women were elected presidents of states or governments, while in 2023, 20.5% of them held the position of ambassadors around the world. The share of female ambassadors continues to grow in a world where their role is becoming more and more important because international affairs should reflect the state of society as a whole, and women certainly bring an invaluable share to the promotion of their countries in the world.

There is no better time to reflect on the position of women in diplomacy than on International Women's Day, in the midst of these unacceptable large-scale conflicts and demanding dialogues in the environment.

The work of women in the diplomatic service is a great opportunity not only for getting to know other cultures and nations, but also for active participation in negotiations and building a better world. Understanding and respecting people from different parts of the world, representing their country and promoting its values and projects in bilateral relations is the main goal of their work.

The number of women in diplomacy is increasing today and they play an important role in global governance. Their leadership styles, their expertise, confidence in decision-making lead to the reduction of instability and conflicts, better quality outcomes important for peace, for a better future for all of us. In diplomacy, there is an equal place for both men and women, because potentials, talents and knowledge should be drawn from the entire population for the benefit of all. The male and female approach provides a broader perspective of society and offers creative solutions. Therefore, the engagement of all able-bodied, regardless of gender, can be very valuable in any social role and enrich the interaction with others. On the occasion of the upcoming Women's Day on March 8, I invited the US ambassador, H. Eksc. Nathalie Rayes to share her thoughts with me.

Women represent half of the world's population and thus half of its potential. Do women bring benefit to diplomacy?

Of course. Women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in society – including international relations—allows us to create a world that is more peaceful, prosperous, and just.  I am proud to come from a country in which multiple women—Madeline Albright, Condoleezza Rice, and Hillary Clinton—served as our top diplomat in recent years.  I also see the benefit of diverse diplomacy every day in U.S. Embassy Zagreb, where women hold many of our most senior positions. 

Including women and others sometimes left out of decision-making processes should be the norm, and studies show that investing in gender equality in Croatia improves opportunities for all vulnerable groups and yields greater economic gains for all.  However, women cannot make that shift in society alone.  We need male allies to advocate for full inclusion and equitable treatment so all in society can contribute their full potential to a better future.

I have heard from women who face structural challenges to living their fullest lives – whether that means raising a family, starting a business, pursuing a career in government, or all the above.  I know our Croatian partners hear these same stories and I am eager to work with them to share experiences in building a more inclusive society.