On this day, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection joins the global community in celebrating the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, a moment to honor the courage, brilliance, and tenacity of women who have broken barriers and are shaping global affairs with excellence and integrity.
We use this opportunity to commend all women who have taken bold steps into the traditionally male-dominated field of diplomacy and international relations. Their resilience, expertise, and leadership continue to shape global outcomes, elevate national interests, and contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding and international cooperation. The presence and performance of women in diplomatic spaces stand as a testament to the transformative power of inclusive governance.
Liberia has a proud legacy of women’s leadership in diplomacy and peacebuilding. From former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state, to Nobel Laureate Leymah Gbowee, Liberian women have long shaped the country’s diplomatic and peacebuilding efforts.
Women in diplomacy have proven time and again that their presence at the negotiation table fosters peace, equity, and inclusive governance. Yet, despite undeniable contributions, women remain significantly underrepresented in high-level diplomatic roles. This imbalance must be addressed not only in words but through real policy commitments and structural reforms.
As of 2024, only 21% of ambassadors globally are women. On the African continent, this figure stands at just 20% up slightly from 19% in 2023. Liberia is no exception, with less than six women currently serving as heads of foreign missions. This is not progress, it is a signal that reform is overdue.
In Liberia, women make up 37.3% of foreign mission staff but hold only 27.1% of home office leadership positions and 40.1% of decision-making roles within foreign missions. These statistics highlight the urgent need for targeted reforms to promote gender-balanced leadership throughout our diplomatic service.
The adoption of UN Human Rights Council Resolution 58/15 on Women, Diplomacy, and Human Rights in April 2025, co-sponsored by over 95 Member States, reaffirms the world’s commitment to eliminating discrimination in diplomatic spaces. Liberia must be among the countries leading this charge.
The Ministry reaffirms its dedication to advancing gender equality in every sector, including international diplomacy. We call on government institutions, civil society, academic bodies, and development partners to work collaboratively in building mentorship networks, leadership pipelines, and institutional support for aspiring female diplomats across Liberia.
Let this day serve as a call to action, to break the barriers, challenge the norms, and invest in the future of girls and women who dream of representing their nation on the world stage.
Happy International Day of Women in Diplomacy!
Together, we rise for justice, for representation, for Liberia.
Communication Unit
Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection
Liberia
