International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History

International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2023

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) is observed annually on June 24 to honor and recognize remarkable women in the fields of diplomacy and decision-making across the globe. Diana Abgar, an Armenian ambassador, is credited as the first female diplomat of the 20th century.

Other influential women, such as former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and former Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, have made significant contributions in representing their nations on the international stage. Today, Ruchira Kamboj, the Permanent Representative/Ambassador of India to the United Nations in New York, carries on this legacy. This article delves into the history and importance of IDWID.

International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2023 Theme

The theme for this year’s International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) Inaugural Forum, organized by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT), is “Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development.” The chosen theme emphasizes the importance of increasing the participation of women in decision-making and diplomatic roles.

This aspect is crucial for empowering women and achieving gender equality, which are fundamental for attaining the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The theme aims to bring attention to these issues and highlight their significance in shaping a sustainable future.

International Day of Women in Diplomacy Significance

As of January 2023, there are 34 women serving as heads of state and/or government in 31 countries. It has been observed that the participation of women in governance and diplomatic affairs leads to improved outcomes. The legislation they enact tends to be more beneficial for the general population and the environment. The International Day of Women in Diplomacy acknowledges and celebrates these strengths of women, aiming to promote greater gender equality worldwide.

International Day of Women in Diplomacy History

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) was established recently, during the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which took place from September 14, 2021, to September 13, 2022. On June 20, 2022, the UNGA adopted a resolution recognizing the importance of women’s contributions in diplomacy and the essential need for equal participation of women in decision-making, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a result, June 24 was designated as the official International Day of Women in Diplomacy.

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