Despite global commitments to gender equality, women remain significantly underrepresented in diplomacy and political leadership, with recent trends showing troubling regression. The Human Rights Council and UN Women both highlight systemic barriers which include discrimination, gender stereotypes, and political violence that continue to exclude women from high-level decision-making. Gender norms often confine women to “soft” portfolios, while critical ministries remain male-dominated, and the number of gender-balanced cabinets and equality-focused ministries is shrinking. This marginalization is compounded by increasing violence against women in politics, both online and offline, deterring participation and eroding hard-won progress. In response, bold action is needed – from implementing quotas and leadership appointments to mentorship and anti-harassment measures – to achieve meaningful, equal representation and uphold the promises of the Beijing Platform and Sustainable Development Goals.

Read more at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/women-in-diplomacy-day