Women in Foreign Affairs: A Comprehensive Discussion on Promoting Gender Parity
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The Albright Institute hosted a panel featuring four high level representatives from GWL: Voices for Change and Inclusion, including former Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright. The panel was moderated by President of Wellesley College, Paula A. Johnson, where she asked all of the prominent women in foreign policy about gender discrimination and how to move forward to remove barriers in women’s representation.
During the panel, the respondents highlighted the actions committed by women leaders during the time period of covid, which have been pivotal. The Prime Minister of Finland, Sanna Marin, was mentioned not only for the way that she handled her response during the covid crisis, but also in her ability to persevere at a young age. Furthermore, the respondents – who have all held top positions in foreign policy – praised the actions of women leaders who had generated better responses to the crisis in comparison to many male counterparts.
The well-respected foreign policy experts were also asked about their signed letter to Afghanistan, calling for the inclusion of women in the ongoing peace process. The moment marked a significant period, displaying collective efforts by prominent women to help others. The panelists emphasized that looking after other women in all realms is a vital component to ensuring greater gender parity and dismantling barriers to women in representational influence. Finally, the panelists addressed the regression period of laws and policies towards women. Especially at a moment where women’s reproductive and civil rights have been challenged, now is the time for all women to rise against discriminatory policies and unify for progress.
Moderated by:
- Paula A. Johnson: President of Wellesley College.
Panelists:
- Madeleine Albright: Former US Secretary of State and GWL Voices member
- Maria Eugenia Brizuela de Avila: Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, El Salvador and GWL Voices member
- Susana Malcorra: Former Undersecretary-General of the United Nations and GWL Voices member
- Margot Wallstrom: Former Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden and GWL Voices member