The session titled “Emirati Women in International Arenas” highlighted the significant strides made by Emirati women in diplomacy and global representation. Organized by the General Women’s Union in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, this high-level dialogue coincided with International Women’s Day in Diplomacy, aiming to showcase extraordinary achievements. By shining a light on the vital role women play in fostering dialogue and constructive relationships across nations, the event emphasized the ongoing commitment to gender parity and women’s empowerment within the UAE’s international framework.
Empowering Women: A Commitment to Equality
During the session, Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State, underscored the significance of International Women’s Day in Diplomacy, characterizing it as a global opportunity to acknowledge the pivotal role women have in enhancing dialogue between countries. She emphasized that the United Nations’ endorsement of this special day signals the importance of women’s involvement in diplomacy and international policy-making. “The UAE proudly supports the leadership of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, ‘Mother of the Nation’, in championing women’s causes,” Al Kaabi stated. The UAE has been instrumental in pushing for the recognition of June 24 as International Women in Diplomacy Day, reflecting its belief in the empowerment of women as a cornerstone for sustainable development and international cooperation.
Celebrating Collective Achievements
Al Kaabi expressed satisfaction with the role of the General Women’s Union in backing Emirati women’s endeavors across various fields. She reiterated the UAE’s commitment to achieving the objectives outlined in the “Mother of the Nation 50:50” vision, reinforcing the country’s position as a global model for women’s empowerment and leadership. “Celebrating women in diplomacy is not just about individual accomplishments; it is a reflection of a nation that believes in women’s potential and has opened doors for them to lead and excel,” she explained.
Insightful Perspectives from Leaders
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women’s Union, remarked that commemorating International Women’s Day in Diplomacy exemplifies the UAE’s steadfast commitment to enhancing women’s leadership roles on the world stage. The session featured prominent discussions by female leaders, including Hanan Khalfan Al Ali, political advisor for European affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Manal Al Breiki, Director of Strategy and Future Management at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy; and Rowda Mohammed Al Otaiba, political advisor to the Minister of State, moderated by journalist Amira Mohammed.
They provided inspiring statistics reflecting the success of the Emirati empowerment model: women constitute nearly 49.5% of the workforce in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while female students make up 60% of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy. These figures signal a promising future for sustained excellence in diplomatic contributions.
Pathways to Leadership and Recognition
The dialogue also explored the remarkable milestones that have accompanied this diplomatic presence, notably the election of Sheikha Al Nuaimi as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. She made history as the first woman and the first Emirati to lead this esteemed organization with support from over 160 countries. This achievement stands as a testament to the impactful presence of Emirati women in international arenas, reflecting both their progress and the continued investment in their development.