Qatar, alongside the rest of the world, celebrates today the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. This day, designated by the UN, recognises the pivotal role of women in diplomacy and honours their contributions to this vital field.
The occasion aims to highlight the central position of women in diplomatic work, showcase their unique contributions to building and strengthening international relations, and underline their active role in supporting peace efforts and promoting global security. It also seeks to emphasise their ability to offer innovative solutions to international challenges.
Qatar takes great pride in having played an essential role in establishing and adopting this international day, reflecting its firm belief in the importance of women’s contributions to advancing diplomatic relations, fostering multilateral cooperation, and building bridges between cultures.
The state has provided Qatari women with all the resources and opportunities necessary to participate and excel in diplomacy. Today, Qatari women hold numerous diplomatic positions, represent the country in international organisations, and are increasingly granted access to leadership roles and decision-making arenas.
In this context, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN Office and other international organisations in Geneva, HE Dr Hind bint Abdulrahman al-Muftah, told Qatar News Agency (QNA): “The remarkable evolution of Qatari diplomacy in recent decades, its growing global presence and clear, principled approach, has paved the way for Qatari women to gain greater prominence in diplomatic work. This progress is a direct result of the wise leadership’s support, the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, and the country’s strategic plans for empowering women and enhancing their participation across all fields.”
Her Excellency added the participation of Qatari women in the diplomatic corps has witnessed significant growth, rising from just three female diplomats in 2008 to more than 300 in 2025, including five women currently serving as heads of missions and ambassadors.
Dr al-Muftah emphasised that, thanks to the forward-thinking leadership of the State, Qatari women have become indispensable partners in diplomatic work. They have earned their place on the international stage as influential voices advocating for humanitarian and human rights issues. The Qatari woman now stands as a distinctive presence and a national asset, adding depth to the diplomatic landscape through her involvement in numerous international organisations, committees, and forums, including those of the UN.
She praised Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, as an inspiring role model for Qatari women and a globally recognised figure in advancing women’s empowerment. Dr al-Muftah also expressed pride in the many distinguished and pioneering Qatari women who are now shaping the diplomatic sphere.
She stressed that Qatar’s active engagement with international human rights mechanisms stems from the principles enshrined in the Qatari Constitution, foremost among them the respect for international treaties and the commitment to implementing the agreements to which Qatar is a party. Dr al-Muftah pointed out that Qatar’s election to the Human Rights Council for the 2025–2027 term is the result of its long-standing efforts in the Council since its establishment in 2006. Qatar has played a significant role in bridging perspectives among regional and political groups, promoting cooperation with member states from diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds, and supporting critical resolutions on various human rights issues while fostering broad consensus.
From her current post in Geneva, Dr al-Muftah expressed her pride in the international recognition and trust Qatar has earned for its sustained efforts and dedication to humanitarian work, mediation, and its impactful role within various UN mechanisms, along with its distinguished contributions to human rights protection across multiple domains. She noted that Qatar has created a supportive and empowering environment for Qatari women in diplomacy by raising societal awareness about the importance of women’s roles, investing in education, building capacities, and developing a supportive legislative framework that promotes equal opportunities and meaningful participation in political decision-making.
Dr al-Muftah also highlighted the importance of Qatar’s Young Professionals Programme, which prepares and empowers young Qatari women in diplomacy by offering training opportunities within UN organisations and enabling them to participate in official delegations during treaty negotiations and international report discussions.
She stated: “A brief look at the contributions of Qatari women in diplomacy today reveals that, thanks to political support, they have transcended traditional political diplomacy to excel in other fields that are a source of national pride. These include cultural diplomacy, embodied in the efforts of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums; educational and scientific diplomacy, through the initiatives led by HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation; as well as diplomacy in the fields of sports, tourism, and the arts.”
Dr al-Muftah stressed that the participation and empowerment of Qatari women in diplomacy are not recent developments but rather a continuous path that has been evolving over decades. This progress has now become an integral part of Qatar’s national vision and development strategies, driven by the leadership’s belief in the vital role of women in development and foreign policy, especially in humanitarian, peace, and security diplomacy. She affirmed Qatar’s unwavering commitment to further empowering women and enhancing their active participation at national, regional, and international levels.
Her Excellency explained the challenges faced by Qatari women in diplomacy are not significantly different from those encountered by their counterparts around the world. Diplomatic work is demanding, with significant responsibilities and sensitivities. Among the most prominent challenges is balancing family commitments with the demands of diplomatic duties, which often involve long working hours, extensive travel, and prolonged stays abroad.
Dr al-Muftah emphasised that women’s presence in diplomacy is not merely a matter of social empowerment but is now recognised as a critical strategic asset. Women are increasingly integral to foreign policy, peacekeeping, and international negotiations. She noted that studies, particularly those by the UN and international bodies, indicate that women’s participation in diplomacy brings a human dimension, contributes to the development of inclusive foreign policies, and is key to resolving conflicts through non-confrontational means, especially in negotiation, mediation, and international relations.
When asked about her message to young Qatari women aspiring to pursue diplomatic careers, Dr al-Muftah affirmed that empowering Qatari women in this field is no longer a mere response to international expectations but a deeply rooted national approach that has been in place for decades and is now bearing fruit across various sectors. This momentum amplifies women’s impact in Qatari diplomacy. While the diplomatic profession may involve considerable challenges, it offers a dynamic and enriching environment for ambitious women capable of excelling and advancing within the diplomatic ranks. She emphasised that diplomacy is open to all; it requires passion, commitment, and a sincere desire to represent the nation with distinction.
In conclusion, Dr al-Muftah urged every Qatari woman to believe in her abilities, remain determined, and persevere. She affirmed that Qatar stands firmly behind its women and believes in their potential. Therefore, it is essential that all Qatari women actively contribute to decision-making and help shape a bright future for their country.
