Kampala, Uganda – Calls for increased representation of women and stronger institutional support in diplomacy and multilateral institutions took center stage at Uganda’s first high-level national celebration of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy held in Kampala. Inside Diplomacy in partnership with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Mission to Uganda brought together diplomats, government officials, representatives of international organizations, civil society actors, academics and young leaders to advance conversations on inclusive leadership and global cooperation.
The forum was held in line with the United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/76/269, which designated 24th June as the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. Organisers said the gathering aimed to recognise women shaping diplomacy and international relations while inspiring young women to pursue careers in global affairs. Opening the session, Ms Patience Namanya from Inside Diplomacy described the forum as a timely opportunity to celebrate women influencing peace, development and international cooperation. “Today is about agency and multilateralism. To the women serving in foreign missions, international organizations and public institutions, we draw inspiration from your work. To young women aspiring to join this space, this future belongs to you,” he said.
The keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Joselyn Bigirwa, Head of Mission of IGAD to Uganda, on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. She emphasised that women’s leadership is indispensable in addressing increasingly complex global challenges. “The challenge has never been women’s capacity. The challenge has been whether institutions are willing to recognise that capacity and provide opportunities based on excellence,” she said.
Mrs. Bigirwa noted that despite progress, women remain underrepresented in senior diplomatic positions globally. According to organisers, women account for only 21% of Permanent Representatives to the United Nations, while 73 countries have never appointed a female representative to the global body.
A high-level panel session featured Dr. Edith Namutebi, Head of Regional Peace and Security at Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Fatima Y. Fernández Juárez of Venezuela, and Ms. Bisharo Ali Hussein of the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Panelists stressed the need for supportive institutions, mentorship and inclusive policies to enable women to thrive in diplomacy.
Inside Diplomacy, a youth-led policy organization that promotes people-centered diplomacy and operates chapters in eight Ugandan universities, said the event forms part of efforts to amplify underrepresented voices and bridge the gap between experienced practitioners and emerging leaders. Participants concluded with renewed calls for greater gender mainstreaming and stronger representation, emphasising that women are essential architects of peace, security and sustainable development.
