Women in International Affairs: Charting the Future.
In celebration of International Women's Day, the Comité Diplomatique hosted a conference on March 17 featuring women active in the international arena. Three remarkable guests from diverse backgrounds were in attendance: Delara Pouya, spokesperson for Minister Vanessa Matz of Federal Action and Public Modernization; Suzana Carp, a celebrated expert in climate policy and member of the Volt party; and Olivia Lori Iglesias, an influential advocate for disability issues and European international opportunities.
The event unfolded in an atmosphere of thoughtful debate and meaningful exchange. Moderated by Lucie, the Comité’s president, and Lilou from the event team, the discussion revolved around carefully chosen themes: Women’s Leadership – Backgrounds and Strategies; European Commitment and Inclusion; The Art of Persuasion – Storytelling and Diplomacy; and Participatory Democracy and Citizen Involvement.
Each speaker offered insights into their experiences within a political realm still predominantly shaped by male conventions. They shared their unique visions for society, discussed the evolving role of women, and championed the causes close to their hearts. Suzana recounted her journey through the challenging world of climate negotiations since the Paris Agreement, while Olivia passionately advocated for a view of disability as a fundamental aspect of European institutions rather than a stigmatized label. Delara shed light on the persistent glass ceiling that hinders women from reaching the highest echelons of power in both politics and business.
Delara also detailed her experience managing last year’s crisis with farmers as the spokesperson for Minister David Clarinval. Suzana recalled her participation in international negotiations, including those concerning the conflict in Ireland, and recounted a moment during her European campaign when she was mistakenly perceived as merely the partner of a campaign organizer—a vivid reminder of enduring gender stereotypes. Olivia illustrated how social media can enhance the visibility of disability issues without reducing them to clichés, and she shared her aspiration to one day join the European Parliament.
As the conference drew to a close, the speakers revealed their future ambitions, offered heartfelt advice to young women aspiring to enter politics, and expressed their concerns about our ever-changing global landscape. Audience members engaged eagerly, thanks to an interactive Wooclap session, and later enjoyed an informal drink reception, where conversations continued in a warm and convivial setting.
Ultimately, the diverse professional journeys of our distinguished guests and the wide array of contemporary issues they discussed created an enriching dialogue. The event served as a compelling reminder that, despite the many challenges women continue to face in politics, they remain an indispensable force—from civil society to diplomatic negotiations—in championing vital causes and crafting the solutions of tomorrow.
