Remarks by Jean Kamau, UN Resident Coordinator at an event to mark the International day of Women in Diplomacy

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this special observance of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy.

I extend sincere appreciation to our partners, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Guyana, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and TEDx Turkeyen, for their collaboration in bringing us together today. I also warmly welcome the women diplomats, representatives of international organisations, government officials and partners who have joined us.

Diplomacy is often described through negotiations, formal agreements and international institutions. Yet, at its heart, diplomacy is about people. It is about listening, understanding different perspectives, building trust and finding common ground, even in difficult circumstances.

Women have long contributed to these efforts, as negotiators, bridge-builders, leaders, advocates and representatives of their countries and communities. However, women remain underrepresented in many of the spaces where major international decisions are made. The International Day of Women in Diplomacy therefore provides an important opportunity not only to celebrate progress, but also to reaffirm our commitment to women’s full, equal and meaningful participation at every level of diplomatic leadership and decision-making.

Our theme, “Women in Diplomacy: Culture, Soft Power and Inclusive Leadership,” reminds us that diplomacy extends beyond formal policy. Culture, heritage, identity and storytelling can be powerful instruments for strengthening relationships between peoples and nations.

Today’s cultural storytelling presentations invite us to see diplomacy through a more personal lens. The traditional garments worn by our speakers are not simply items of clothing. They carry histories, values, memories and symbols of national identity. Through their stories, we will see how women diplomats serve not only as official representatives, but also as cultural ambassadors who connect communities and deepen mutual understanding.

This event also reflects the importance of partnership. The United Nations is proud to work alongside government, diplomatic missions, regional institutions and civil society to advance gender equality, inclusive leadership and international cooperation. These partnerships are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring that women’s voices help shape the decisions affecting our shared future.

To the women diplomats participating today: thank you for your service, leadership and willingness to share your stories. To the younger women and emerging diplomats among us: may today remind you that your voices, experiences and ideas belong in every room where decisions are made.

Let us continue to build a diplomatic community in which women are not merely present, but are empowered to lead, influence and transform.