The Role of Women in Diplomatic Work to Promote Lasting Peace

A panel of diplomats comprising the spokesperson of the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs and five ambassadors to Qatar was hosted at CHS on "The Role of Women in Diplomatic Work to Promote Lasting Peace," in support of International Women's Day. The panel was hosted in collaboration with the UNESCO Regional Office for the GCC and Yemen.

Panelists:

H.E. Lolwah Al Khater, Official Spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry of Qatar;

H.E. Ivonne A- Baki, Ambassador of Ecuador to Qatar;

H.E. Ewa Polano Ambassador of Sweden to Qatar;

H.E. Fatma Mohamad Rajab, Ambassador of Tanzania to Qatar;

H.E. Rossana Cecilia Surballe, Ambassador of Argentina to Qatar;

H.E. Bahia Tahzib-Lie, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Qatar.

The panel emphasized that the contribution of women makes the consolidation of peace possible and strengthens our societies and economies. Behind the scenes, women play a major role in breaking all norms and challenging traditions to prove that they are qualified to work in this field. The role of women should not be classified according to their appearance in the media only, but rather should be viewed through their impact on policymaking.

Women give a different perspective, which is why any negotiation must have the presence of both men and women. Societies with equitable gender relations reach sustainable peace faster than others, according to studies. There is a focus by community organizations in African countries, especially the African Union, to advocate for women, integrate them and strengthen their participation in decision-making.