Addis Ababa, July 8, 2024 (FBC) – President Sahle-Work Zewde emphasized the need to enhance women’s participation in diplomacy, conflict resolution and peace building efforts.
The president made the remark in her address she delivered at the International Day of Women in Diplomacy observed in Addis Ababa today at the headquarters of UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).
The event, organized by the Women in Diplomacy in Ethiopia Network (WIDEN), marks the international day of women in diplomacy 2024, ahead of the 25th anniversary of the adoption of UN security council resolution 1325.
On the occasion, President Sahlework highlighted the critical need for women’s full representation in all aspects of diplomacy and decision-making, with their unique perspectives and approaches.
She shared her experiences to the audience about her engagements in resolving conflicts in various peace building processes in various parts of Africa and the UN.
The president noted that resolution 1325 of UN Security Council heralds better future for women. The resolution urges all actors to increase the participation of women and incorporate gender perspectives in all United Nations peace and security efforts.
Women need to join hands to amplify their voices to be heard at global arena, she underscore, emphasizing the need to end women’s trauma in conflict affected areas.
In his remark at the occasion, the Executive Secretary of UNECA Claver Gatete said addressing today’s global challenges requires equal representation of women in all areas.
Women bring immense benefits to diplomacy, explaining their role in peace keeping mission in Africa, he stated.
The executive secretary said advocating for increased representation of women in key decision-making positions will greatly shape and implement multilateral agendas.
He mentioned about the importance of systematic mainstreaming of gender perspective in the implementation of agenda 2030.
Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Ergoge Tesfaye said the Ethiopian government has created conducive environment to enhance women participation in conflict resolution and peace building efforts.
Ethiopia is also working to strengthen legal framework for survivors of gender based violence especially in conflict affected areas, the minister added.
Ambassadors and diplomats of various countries, representative of international organizations and other invited guests attended the event organized to celebrate the 2024 International Day of Women in Diplomacy in Addis Ababa.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 June of each year the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, reaffirming that the participation of women, on equal terms with men, at all levels of decision-making is essential to the achievement of sustainable development, peace and democracy.
The event, according to ENA, serves as an important reminder of the improvements that have been made so far and the work that remains to guarantee that women have equal opportunities to lead and contribute to the field of diplomacy.