UNU Hosts Event Highlighting Role of Female Leaders in Diplomacy

On 29 July 2025, the United Nations University (UNU), with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, hosted the event “Diplomacy in Transition: Women in Leadership” at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo. Organized as part of UNU 50th anniversary celebrations, the event spotlighted the critical role of female leaders in shaping inclusive, peaceful and forward-looking international relations. Against the backdrop of global divisions and setbacks in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the gathering emphasized the need to reimagine diplomacy through gender-inclusive leadership.

The programme featured opening remarks by Ms. Yukiko Okano, Director-General for Cultural Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. The event continued with presentations from three distinguished female leaders.

Ms. Mami Mizutori, Specially Appointed Professor at Tohoku University and former Assistant Secretary-General and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for UNDRR, shared lessons learned from her time at UNDRR as well as inspiring stories of women in leadership. H.E. Ms. Shorna-Kay M. Richards, Ambassador of Jamaica to Japan, began her presentation by urging the audience to “let women make peace” and highlighted the importance of gender representation in disarmament and international cooperation. H.E. Ms. Melba Pría, Ambassador of Mexico to Japan, reflected on the UN’s track record on gender equality, noting the dearth of female leadership, and shared lessons from Mexico’s approach to increasing women’s representation in positions of leadership. The presentations were followed by a lively panel discussion moderated by Prof. Sawako Shirahase, Senior Vice-Rector of UNU.

The event underscored the value of diverse perspectives in global negotiations and encouraged Japan to lead with innovation and inclusivity on the world stage.