Women in the diplomatic service

Abstract

Diplomacy can improve through gender-friendly measures that lead to an equal participation by women and men. Yet, gender parity is still a long way ahead. This research is aimed at highlighting the remaining impediments faced by women in their career advancement in the Foreign Service. My research focuses on the challenges that women diplomats generally face while in the Foreign Service. It discusses gender differences in the workplace and why women find it difficult to compete with male colleagues. It explains how personal life impacts career choices in diplomacy and the obstacles females are encountering in this area, particularly, when children are present. It delves into family issues, including the role played by a diplomatic spouse and how status impacts the diplomatic career, often leading to marriage breakups. The research refers particularly to the Maltese context discussing the role of politics in this sphere and how this influences some ambassadorial appointments. One recommends encouraging the governments to ensure balanced representation of both women and men in the diplomatic service and help female diplomats to reconcile their diplomatic careers with their private lives. Amongst other recommendations, one mentions implementing flexibility in employment status, providing adequate facilities to working mothers, facilitating access to diplomatic education for women and reinforcing the role of women in the activities of international organizations. Above all, one recommends devising of effective strategies to involve both men and women in the international and national efforts to achieve equality to combat stereotypes and overcome obstacles.