On 7 March 2025, the EU Delegation to the UN in Geneva welcomed over 80 trainees and young professionals from across International Geneva for a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving role of women in diplomacy, the persisting challenges they face, and the growing pushback against gender equality.

Ambassador Lotte Knudsen, Head of the EU Delegation, opened the event with welcome remarks, underlining the EU’s commitment to advancing gender equality in multilateralism. She emphasised that gender equality is not just a women’s issue but a collective responsibility that concerns both women and men. She also underscored the strength of the network of female ambassadors in Geneva, highlighting the importance of building alliances and supporting one another to drive meaningful change.

Moderated by EU Delegation trainees, the panel featured seven distinguished female ambassadors from diverse regions:

• Ambassador Berananda, Permanent Mission of Thailand

• Ambassador Lozano Gallegos, Permanent Mission of El Salvador

• Ambassador Al-Muftah, Permanent Mission of Qatar

• Ambassador Filipenko, Permanent Mission of Ukraine

• Ambassador Verges, Permanent Mission of Mauritania

• Ambassador Pipan, Permanent Mission of Slovenia

• Ambassador Rasheed, Permanent Mission of the Maldives

The discussion highlighted the critical role of women in diplomacy, not only as a matter of fairness, but also as a means to achieve better diplomatic outcomes. Underlining the necessity of female representation in decision-making processes, the panelists agreed that gender equality is not merely an aspirational goal but a prerequisite for sustainable and effective policymaking.

The conversation also touched on the role of allyship, with panelists stressing that while female networks are essential, it is equally important to find male allies who actively support gender equality. At the same time, many speakers highlighted the significance of family and partner support, acknowledging that balancing diplomatic careers with personal life remains a challenge for both women and men.

Education emerged as a key enabler of women’s empowerment, offering both the knowledge and skills necessary for personal and professional growth. The discussion stressed that education enhances the creation of supportive networks that foster collaboration, mentorship, and collective advancement in the diplomatic sphere.

The conversation concluded on an empowering note, with speakers urging the next generation of diplomats to make their voices heard. The panelists shared personal insights on overcoming societal expectations and structural challenges and encouraged the young professionals in attendance to take action in their own careers and not be discouraged by perceptions or biases.

The audience actively engaged in the discussion, posing insightful questions on the role of allyship and work-life balance. Following the discussion, participants had the opportunity to continue the conversation over a networking lunch, fostering meaningful connections among trainees.

The event was part of the EU Delegation’s #InterNconnected series, an initiative designed by trainees for trainees in International Geneva. This series provides a unique space for young professionals to engage with high-level experts, exchange perspectives on pressing global issues, and expand their professional networks. Previous editions have covered topics such as digital governance and human rights, bringing together a dynamic community of interns from diplomatic missions and UN agencies. By fostering interactive discussions and networking opportunities, the series empowers the next generation of global leaders and strengthens their connection to the multilateral system.

The EU Delegation thanks Ambassador Berananda, Ambassador Al-Muftah, Ambassador Lozano Gallegos, Ambassador Rasheed, Ambassador Filipenko, Ambassador Pipan, and Ambassador Verges for their participation and looks forward to continuing this initiative, providing young professionals with further opportunities to engage with diplomats and experts shaping the international agenda.