top of page
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram

Notable Women

Notable Women

Louise Arbour in jpeg.jpg

Louise Arbour

Louise Arbour is a distinguished Canadian jurist and diplomat, celebrated for her profound contributions to international law and human rights. She was appointed United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in 2004 and has served as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for International
Migration since 2017, significantly influencing global migration governance. Arbour's legal career began in 1970, culminating in her role as Associate Professor and Associate Dean at Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, by 1987. That same year, she was appointed to the Supreme Court of Ontario, and by 1990, she ascended to the Court of Appeal for Ontario. Her reputation as a staunch advocate for justice was solidified in 1995 when she was
appointed as a single Commissioner to investigate the Prison for Women in Kingston, Ontario. Internationally, Arbour gained prominence in 1996 when the United Nations Security Council appointed her as Chief Prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda. She led groundbreaking prosecutions for war crimes, including the first indictment for genocide. After three years, she resigned in 1999 to join the Supreme Court of Canada, where she served until 2004 leaving a lasting impact on Canadian law. Born on 10 February
In 1947, in Montreal, Quebec, Arbour earned her LL.L. with distinction from the University of Montreal in 1970 and was called to the Quebec Bar in 1971 and the Ontario Bar in 1977. Fluent in French and English, she is also a mother of three. Arbour's tireless advocacy for human rights and international justice has earned her global recognition, including numerous accolades and honorary degrees.

Jacinda Ardern in jpeg.jpg

Jacinda Ardern

Jacinda Ardern is a prominent New Zealand politician and global leader known for her progressive policies, compassionate leadership, and crisis management. She served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023, becoming the world’s youngest female head of government at her election. Ardern's empathetic governance was particularly noted during the Christchurch mosque shootings, the White Island volcanic eruption,
and the COVID-19 pandemic. Born on 26 July 1980 in Hamilton, New Zealand, Ardern was raised in a politically active family and graduated from the University of Waikato with a Bachelor of Communication Studies in 2001, focusing on politics and public relations. She began her political career as a researcher in the office of Prime Minister Helen Clark and gained international experience with the UK Cabinet Office during Tony Blair’s tenure. Elected to
In 2008, Ardern, a Labour Party member, rose through the ranks of New Zealand's Parliament. In August 2017, just seven weeks before the general election, she became the Labour Party leader, leading to a dramatic victory and the formation of a coalition government. As Prime Minister, Ardern prioritized child poverty, mental health, and climate change, while adeptly managing national crises. Her swift actions following the Christchurch mosque attacks
in 2019, including introducing stringent gun laws, earned her international acclaim. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was marked by clear communication and a science-driven approach, resulting in New Zealand's effective management of the crisis. After stepping down in 2023, Ardern continued to focus on global issues such as climate action, human rights, and governance reform. Fluent in English, she lives with her partner, Clarke Gayford, and their daughter, Neve. Ardern is celebrated globally for her empathetic, pragmatic leadership and her commitment to progressive change.

Michelle_Bachelet_ in jpeg.jpg

Michelle Bachelet

Michelle Bachelet is a distinguished Chilean leader, diplomat, and physician known for her steadfast commitment to human rights, social equity, and gender equality. She served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2018 to 2022, where she addressed global issues including the Rohingya crisis in
Myanmar, abuses in Venezuela, and the treatment of Uyghurs in China. Bachelet is celebrated as Chile's first female President, serving two terms from 2006 to 2010 and 2014 to 2018. Born on 29 September 1951 in Santiago, Chile, Bachelet's dedication to justice was deeply influenced by her father's death under torture during
Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship. She pursued a medical degree at the University of Chile, specializing in pediatrics and public health, which shaped her approach to public policy. Bachelet began her
political career as Chile’s Minister of Health from 2000 to 2002, implementing reforms to improve healthcare for marginalized populations. She became Latin America's first female Minister of Defense (2002–2004), modernizing Chile’s military and enhancing civil-military relations. As President, Bachelet championed progressive social policies, including education and tax reforms to reduce inequality, and established key
institutions like the National Institute for Human Rights. She also advanced gender equality by creating the Ministry of Women and Gender Equality, implementing political participation quotas for women, and passing the Civil Union Act, granting rights to same-sex couples. After her presidency, Bachelet continued her global advocacy as the first Executive Director of UN Women (2010–2013), promoting women's economic empowerment and ending violence against women. She has been involved in numerous international initiatives, including launching the Latin American platform for the EWEC Global Strategy and chairing the Social Protection Floor Advisory Group. Fluent in multiple languages and a mother of three, Michelle Bachelet remains an influential advocate for human rights, known for her empathetic and effective leadership.

Sima_Sami_Bahous_-_2023_(cropped).jpg

Sima Sami Bahous

Sima Sami Bahous is a Jordanian diplomat and women’s rights advocate and has served as
Executive Director of UN Women since 2021. She previously served as Jordan's Ambassador to the
United Nations from 2016 to 2021. Earlier, she was Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League
in Cairo, Egypt. Born in 1956 in Jordan, she attended the University of Jordan, the University of Essex, and Indiana University.

Alicia Barcena in jpeg.jpg

Alicia Bárcena

Alicia Bárcena is a prominent Mexican diplomat, economist, and environmentalist, currently serving as Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs since 2023. With a career spanning over four decades, Bárcena has significantly contributed to sustainable development, social equity, and international cooperation across
Latin America and the Caribbean. From 2008 to 2022, Bárcena served as the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). During her 14-year tenure, she promoted economic policies that addressed inequality, enhanced regional integration, and fostered
sustainable development, shaping the region’s socio-economic landscape. Before ECLAC, Bárcena held key roles within the United Nations, including Under-Secretary-General for Management, where she oversaw administrative and financial reforms, and Chef de Cabinet to former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, coordinating his initiatives. Earlier in her career, Bárcena served as Deputy Executive Secretary of ECLAC and led its Environment and Human Settlements Division, advocating for environmental sustainability in economic planning. She also worked
with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on grassroots sustainable development. In the Mexican government, Bárcena was Vice-Minister of Ecology and Director of the National Institute of  Fisheries, contributing to the preservation of natural resources. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, Bárcena has published extensively on sustainable development and economic policy. As Mexico’s Foreign Secretary, she continues to strengthen global partnerships, promote regional cooperation, and address challenges like climate change, with a commitment to multilateralism and social justice.

Maria Holguin Cuellar in jpeg (1).jpg

María Angela Holguín Cuéllar

María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar is a highly respected Colombian diplomat and politician with a distinguished career in international relations. Born on November 13, 1963, in Bogotá, she holds a  degree in Political Science from the Universidad de los Andes and pursued further studies at the Centre d'Études Diplomatiques et
Stratégiques and Université Paris-Sorbonne in France. Holguín's diplomatic career is marked by several high-profile appointments. She served as Colombia's Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2010 to 2018, where she played a central role in the peace negotiations with 
the FARC, leading to the 2016 peace agreement that ended decades
of conflict. Her leadership during this process earned her international acclaim. In addition to her role in the peace process, Holguín was instrumental in enhancing Colombia’s diplomatic relations, particularly within Latin America, and with the United States and the European Union. She also served as Colombia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador to Venezuela, and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. In 2023, Holguín was appointed as the Personal Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General on Cyprus, tasked with advising on the Cyprus issue and seeking common ground for conflict resolution. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, Holguín is also a vocal advocate for women’s rights and social justice, consistently promoting gender equality in international forums. Her contributions to Colombian diplomacy and global peace efforts make her one of the most notable figures in Latin American politics.

Virgina Gamba in jpeg.jpg

Virginia Gamba

 Virginia Gamba is a distinguished Argentine diplomat and a leading expert in international security, disarmament, and human rights. Born in San Martín, Buenos Aires in 1954, Gamba has dedicated over three decades to advancing global peace and security. She holds an MSc in Strategic Studies from University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, and a BA in Spanish and Latin American Studies from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne. Gamba's extensive career includes numerous high-profile roles within the United Nations and other international organizations. She currently serves as the fourth Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, a position she has held since 2017. In this role, Gamba has been a powerful advocate for the protection of children in conflict zones, working tirelessly to address and prevent violations against children in war-torn regions. Before her current appointment, Gamba was the Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Joint Investigative Mechanism for Syria, where she led efforts under UN Security Council Resolutions 2235 and 2319. She also served as Deputy to
the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs and Director of the Office for Disarmament Affairs. Her past engagements include serving as Director of the Disarmament and Conflict Resolution Programme at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research in Geneva, Deputy Director of the Institute for Security Studies in South Africa, and Director for South-South Interactions of Safer Africa. Gamba has also been an academic, lecturing at King’s College London and advising the Argentine Ministry of Defense on civil-military relations. Fluent in Spanish and English, Gamba’s legacy is marked by her unwavering commitment to disarmament, human security, and the protection of the most vulnerable in conflict situations. Her work continues to inspire global efforts toward peace and justice.

Maria Fernandez Espinoza.jpg

María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés

María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés is a distinguished Ecuadorian diplomat, politician, and academic with over 20 years of experience in international relations and multilateral negotiations. Born on
September 7, 1964, in Salamanca, Spain, and raised in Ecuador, she holds a Masters Degree in Social Sciences and Amazonian Studies and a postgraduate degree in Anthropology and Political Science from the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO) in Quito. Espinosa has held several high-ranking positions in the Ecuadorian government, including twice serving as Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as Minister of National Defense, and
Coordinating Minister of Natural and Cultural Heritage. She coordinated the Sectorial Council on Foreign Policy and Promotion, overseeing the Ministries of Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Foreign Trade, and the Environment. On June 5, 2018, Espinosa was elected as the President of the 73rd session of the United Nations General
Assembly, making her only the fourth woman and the first Latin American woman to hold this prestigious position. Her tenure focused on gender equality, the rights of indigenous peoples, and environmental sustainability. As Chair of the Group of 77 and China, she played a critical role in advancing the interests of developing countries. Espinosa was the first woman to serve as Ecuador’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, where she co-facilitated the revitalization of the General Assembly’s work. She also held the role of Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, where she led negotiations at the Human Rights Council and chaired the Community of Latin
American and Caribbean States (CELAC). Her contributions to global environmental policy include leading Ecuador’s negotiations at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 16 and 17) and facilitating key elements of the Rio+20 outcome document, “The Future We Want.” She also promoted the resolution “Indigenous women: key actors in poverty and hunger eradication” at the 56th session of the Commission on the Status of
Women. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, Espinosa’s legacy is defined by her unwavering commitment to multilateralism, social justice, and environmental protection, making her one of the most influential women in global diplomacy. 

Natalia Gherman with hand gestures (1).jpg

Natalia Gherman

Natalia Gherman is a highly respected Moldovan diplomat and politician, currently serving as the Executive Director of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED). Appointed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres with the concurrence of the Security Council, Gherman brings over 30 years of experience in international diplomacy, regional security, and counter-terrorism. Gherman has an extensive background in high-level governmental roles. She served as Moldova’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration from 2013 to 2016, where she also held the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister in 2015. During her tenure, she was instrumental in negotiating and finalizing the Association Agreement between Moldova and the European Union, a pivotal achievement for Moldova’s European integration. Before leading CTED, Gherman
was the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) from 2017. In this role, she focused on promoting peace, security, and regional cooperation, leveraging her expertise in conflict prevention and consensus-building to foster
dialogue between governments, civil society, and international partners. Her diplomatic career includes serving as Moldova’s Ambassador to Austria, Permanent Representative to the United Nations Agencies in Vienna, and to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). She was also the first resident Moldovan Ambassador to Sweden, Norway, and Finland, where she established Moldova’s diplomatic presence in the Nordic region. Gherman’s expertise extends to global security affairs, with a focus on countering international terrorism, extremism, organized crime, and environmental degradation. Her leadership in these areas has been marked by a commitment to promoting peace through justice, sustainable development, and the rule of law. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the State University of Moldova and a Master of Arts in War Studies from King’s College, University of London. Fluent in Romanian, English, Russian, French, and German, Gherman continues to be a leading figure in global diplomacy, recognized for her dedication to advancing peace and security on the international stage.

Rebeca Grynspan in jpeg.jpg

Rebeca Grynspan

Rebeca Grynspan is a prominent Costa Rican economist, diplomat, and international leader, currently serving as the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), a role she has held since 2021. Grynspan is the first woman and the first person from Central America to hold this position, underscoring her trailblazing career in global economic diplomacy and development. Before her appointment to UNCTAD, Grynspan was unanimously elected as Secretary-General of the Ibero-American General Secretariat (SEGIB) in 2014, a position she held until 2021. Her tenure at SEGIB was marked by her efforts to enhance regional cooperation among Ibero-American countries, particularly in areas such as sustainable development, gender equality, and social inclusion. Grynspan has a distinguished history of service within the United Nations. From 2010 to 2014, she served
as the UN Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where she played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission in poverty reduction, democratic governance, and crisis prevention. Prior to that, she was the UNDP Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean from 2006 to 2010, where she focused on fostering economic development and reducing inequality across the region. In her home country of Costa Rica, Grynspan served as Vice President from 1994 to 1998. During this time, she also held the roles of Minister of Housing, Minister Coordinator of Economic and Social Affairs, and Deputy Minister of Finance. Her leadership in these roles was instrumental in shaping Costa Rica’s social and economic policies during a period of significant reform. In addition to her governmental and UN roles, Grynspan has been actively involved in global policy discussions. She was a member of the High-Level Panel on Financing for Development convened by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan in 2001, contributing her expertise to important global financial discussions. In June 2014, she was appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees of the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), a leading organization in development and environmental policy research. Grynspan holds a degree in economics from the University of Costa Rica and completed postgraduate studies at the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. She is fluent in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and French. Throughout her career, Grynspan has been a powerful advocate for equitable economic policies and sustainable development, consistently working to create a more inclusive global economy.

Noelenn Heyzer in jpeg.jpg

Dr. Noeleen Heyzer

Dr. Noeleen Heyzer is a distinguished Singaporean social scientist and a leading figure in global diplomacy and development. She currently serves as the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy on Myanmar, where she focuses on advancing peace, stability, and human rights. Dr. Heyzer was the first woman to be appointed as the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
(ESCAP), a position she held from 2007 to 2014. Her tenure marked significant strides in regional cooperation and sustainable development. Previously, Dr. Heyzer was the Executive Director of the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) from 1994 to 2007, where she played a pivotal role in advancing women's rights and gender equality worldwide. Her leadership was instrumental in the adoption of landmark policies and initiatives,
including the establishment of the UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women. Dr. Heyzer's contributions to peace-building extend beyond her role in the UN. She served as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Adviser for Timor-Leste, where she supported efforts in peace-building, state-building, and sustainable development. She is currently a Distinguished Fellow at the Singapore Management University (SMU) School of Social
Sciences and a Visiting Distinguished Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Dr. Heyzer holds a Doctorate in social sciences from Cambridge University and has received numerous accolades, including the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal and the international Aletta Jacobs Prize. She was also inducted into the Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame for her outstanding contributions to society.

sigrid kaag.jpg

Sigrid Kaag

Sigrid Kaag is a distinguished diplomat and politician from the Netherlands, known for her leadership in international diplomacy, humanitarian work, and governance. In January 2024, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed her as the Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, in line with Security Council Resolution 2720 (2023). In this critical role, Kaag is responsible for facilitating, coordinating, monitoring, and verifying humanitarian relief consignments to Gaza. Kaag's political career includes serving as the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, where she was also responsible for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation. She has led the Dutch political party Democrats 66 (D66) since September 2020, steering the party to a historic result in the March 2021 parliamentary elections. Before her ministerial roles, Kaag held several senior positions within the United Nations. She was the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, overseeing all UN activities in the country, and led the mission to eliminate chemical weapons in Syria as the UN Under-Secretary-General. Her extensive experience also includes roles as Assistant-Secretary-General for UNDP in New York and UNICEF’s Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa in Amman. Kaag holds an MA in Middle East Studies from the University of Exeter, an MPhil in International Relations from Oxford University, and a BA in Middle East Studies from the American University in Cairo. Fluent in multiple languages, she continues to be a prominent voice for diplomacy, peace, and humanitarian efforts on the global stage.

Angela Kane in jpeg.jpg

Angela Kane

Angela Kane is a distinguished German diplomat and international civil servant with a remarkable career at the United Nations. She served as the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs from 2012 to 2015, where she played a crucial role in global disarmament efforts, notably in the elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons. Her diplomatic expertise and leadership were instrumental in advancing international security. Kane has held several other senior roles at the UN, including Under-Secretary-General for Management, where she oversaw the organization’s financial, human resources, and administrative functions, and Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, contributing to peacekeeping and conflict resolution. She also served as Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in the Ethiopia-Eritrea peacekeeping mission and played key roles in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the El Salvador peace negotiations. Additionally, she held a managerial position in the UN Department of Public Information. Beyond her UN career, Kane is actively involved in education and international diplomacy. She teaches at the Sciences Po Paris School of International Affairs, Tsinghua University/Schwarzman Scholars in Beijing, and the Vienna Diplomatic Academy. She is a Senior Fellow at the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation and Vice President of the International Institute for Peace in Vienna. In August 2021, she was appointed the Sam Nunn Distinguished Fellow at the Nuclear Threat Initiative in Washington, DC. Kane holds a Master’s degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and continues to be an influential voice in global efforts towards peace, security, and disarmament.

Natalia Kanem.jpg

Dr. Natalia Kanem

Dr. Natalia Kanem, born in Panama, is the Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the UN's agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health and rights. Appointed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2017, Dr. Kanem brings over 30 years of strategic leadership in preventive medicine, public and reproductive health, social justice, and philanthropy. Dr. Kanem began her research career in academia, holding positions at the Johns Hopkins and Columbia University Schools of Medicine and Public Health. She joined UNFPA in 2014 as the Country Representative in Tanzania and was promoted to Deputy Executive Director in charge of programs in 2016, before becoming Executive Director. Her career includes serving as the founding president of ELMA Philanthropies, Inc., which focuses on Africa’s children and youth, and as a senior associate at the Lloyd Best
Institute of the West Indies. As a Ford Foundation officer from 1992 to 2004, Dr. Kanem pioneered work in women’s reproductive health and human rights in West Africa and later served as Deputy Vice-President for peace and social justice programs globally. Dr. Kanem holds a medical degree from Columbia University, a
Master’s in Public Health from the University of Washington, and graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University in history and science. Recognized as one of the most influential voices in global policy on sexual and reproductive health and rights, she was listed on the 2019 Gender Equality Top 100 for her leadership in advocating for women’s rights and choices in the Sustainable Development Goals era.

karin landgren in jpeg.jfif

Karin Landgren

Karin Landgren is a distinguished diplomat and international civil servant with extensive experience in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, and human rights. Over her career, she has led three United Nations peacekeeping and political missions, including the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), the United Nations
Integrated Office in Burundi (BNUB), and the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN). In 2009, she became the eighth woman to head a UN peace operation when she was appointed as SRSG in Nepal. In 2014, Landgren played a pivotal role in UNMIL's support to Liberia’s response to the Ebola crisis. Landgren has nearly two
decades of experience working with refugees. She was the UNHCR country representative in Bosnia-Herzegovina during the war, in Eritrea immediately after the conflict, and in Singapore, where she worked with Vietnamese boat people rescued at sea. She also served with UNHCR in India and the Philippines and as Chief of Standards
and Legal Advice, where she revived UNHCR's responsibility for the protection of stateless persons. As UNICEF's first Chief of Child Protection, Landgren developed the protective environment framework, a systemic approach to safeguarding children's rights from violence, exploitation, and abuse. She served on the boards of the UN Study on Violence Against Children and the Children and Torture Project. Landgren is a founding member of the Nordic
Women Mediators' Network and has held academic positions, including the George Soros Visiting Practitioner Chair at Central European University and teaching at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs. She holds a B.Sc. (Econ) and an LL.M. from the London School of Economics and a Certificate in Public Policy and Governance from the University of Maastricht.

AD_4nXddoNDcsQlyGrtRppUeIHJUhVJpBJgAWMQe820HieTYXgo-7xLNyDSFwVHRmzR6X3mrkAek7Nyg91_2jKCNMa

Frederica Mogherini

Federica Mogherini is an accomplished Italian politician and diplomat with a distinguished career in European and international affairs. From November 2014 to November 2019, she served as the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. In this role, Mogherini was instrumental in shaping the EU's foreign policy and strengthening its global role, overseeing significant international
negotiations and initiatives. Prior to this, Mogherini was Italy's Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from February 2014 to October 2014. She also served as a Member of the Chamber of Deputies from 2008 to 2014, where she was active in various legislative areas, including foreign policy and international
relations. In 2020, Mogherini was appointed Rector of the College of Europe, a prestigious post-graduate institution specializing in European studies with campuses in Bruges, Belgium, and Natolin, Poland. As rector, she has been at the forefront of advancing European integration and education. Currently, she chairs the UN Panel on Internal Displacement, working to address and find solutions for the challenges faced by internally displaced persons worldwide. Mogherini holds a degree in Political Science from the University of Rome and has been recognized for her contributions to international diplomacy and European integration. Her leadership continues to impact global policy and education on European affairs.

page13image130043616.png

Dunja Mijatovic

Dunja Mijatović is a prominent human rights advocate with a career deeply rooted in defending freedom of expression and media rights. Most recently, she served as the Human Rights Commissioner for the Council of Europe from April 2018 to March 2024. Her tenure was marked by a relentless pursuit of justice for marginalized groups and the protection of refugees, migrants, and journalists facing persecution. Mijatović previously held the role of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) Representative on Freedom of the Media from 2010 to 2017. In this capacity, she worked tirelessly to safeguard media freedom across Europe, particularly in politically sensitive environments. Her leadership during this period was instrumental in addressing critical issues related to journalists’ safety, media convergence, and the impact of digitalization on freedom of expression. A native of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mijatović was a founder of the Communications Regulatory Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and played a key role in shaping the country’s media landscape. In 2007, she was elected Chair of the European Platform of Regulatory Agencies, further solidifying her influence in the field. She also chaired the Council of Europe’s Group of Specialists on Freedom of Expression and Information in Times of Crisis, demonstrating her expertise in navigating complex media environments during critical moments. Mijatović’s extensive knowledge of human rights, communications strategy, and media policy, combined with her
experience in institution-building in transitional states, has established her as a leading voice in global human rights advocacy. Her work continues to inspire efforts to protect freedom, equality, and the rule of law worldwide.

page13image130081680.png

Amina J. Mohammed

Amina J. Mohammed is a distinguished global leader in sustainable development and environmental stewardship. Currently serving as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, she plays a pivotal role in advancing the global agenda on sustainable
development and climate action. Before she was appointed Deputy Secretary-General, Ms. Mohammed served as the Minister of Environment of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, where she led the nation’s efforts in climate action and environmental protection. Her leadership was instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s environmental policies during a critical period of global environmental challenges. Ms. Mohammed’s journey with the United Nations began in 2012 when she joined as the Special Adviser to former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. In this role, she was responsible for post-2015 development planning and led the process that culminated in the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the creation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a global
framework that continues to guide international development efforts. Her career began in Nigeria, where she worked on the design of schools and clinics, advocating for increased access to education and social services. She later transitioned into public service, where she advised four successive Nigerian Presidents on
issues of poverty, public sector reform, and sustainable development. Ms. Mohammed is also an accomplished academic, having been conferred several honorary doctorates and serving as an adjunct professor lecturing on international development. A recipient of numerous global awards, she has served on various international advisory boards and panels, contributing her expertise to global development initiatives. Beyond her professional
achievements, Ms. Mohammed is a devoted mother of six and a grandmother of four, balancing her demanding career with a rich family life.

mNuBC2BULx8cLj-uaBUdAHTUF9yVTUwySpDSSHDcCz0zwYhbiMugWHdu7jAkR_kcvKtQYw9ahKnS_W_bLEh0AuPkvc-_vlAOMAb9T3LN3CZRQAGN_QzKOWP6TLfD.jpg

Mia Amor Mottley, S.C., M.P.

The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, S.C., M.P., is the esteemed Prime Minister of Barbados, serving as the nation’s eighth and first female Prime Minister since May 25, 2018. A trailblazer in Barbadian politics, Mottley is also the Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and Investment, as well as the Minister of National Security and the Public Service, roles in which she has driven significant policy reforms aimed at modernizing the economy and enhancing public safety. Mottley was first elected to the Parliament of Barbados in September 1994 as a member of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP). Her political journey began even earlier, serving as one of two Opposition Senators from 1991 to 1994. She quickly distinguished herself as a rising star, becoming one of the youngest persons ever to hold a ministerial portfolio when she was appointed Minister of Education, Youth Affairs and
Culture from 1994 to 2001. During this period, she implemented transformative policies that strengthened Barbados’s educational system and cultural identity. Her legal expertise and commitment to public service led to her appointment as Attorney General and Minister of Home Affairs from 2001 to 2008, where she also served
as Deputy Prime Minister—the first woman in Barbados to hold this position. Mottley’s legal career is equally distinguished; she is an accomplished Attorney-at-Law with a degree from the London School of Economics and a Barrister of the Bar of England and Wales. In 2002, she was admitted to the Inner Bar, becoming the youngest ever Queens Counsel (now Senior Counsel) in Barbados and a member of the Local Privy Council. As Prime Minister, Mottley has been a formidable advocate for climate action, particularly for small island developing states, and has gained global recognition for her leadership at international forums such as COP26. Her government has focused on economic reform, digital transformation, and social equity, with significant strides toward making Barbados a republic, affirming its sovereignty and national identity. Mottley’s leadership is characterized by her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and progress, both in Barbados and on the global stage. Her legacy is one of groundbreaking achievements and a deep dedication to the well-being of her people.

Nakamitsu.jpg

IZUMI NAKAMITSU

Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu assumed her position as Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs on 1 May 2017. Prior to taking on this post, Ms. Nakamitsu served as Assistant Administrator of the Crisis Response Unit at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since 2014.She has many years of experience within and outside the United Nations system, most recently as Special Adviser Ad Interim on Follow-up to the Summit on Addressing Large Movements of Refugees and Migrants between 2016 and 2017. She was previously Director of the Asia and the Middle East Division of the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations between 2012 and 2014, and Director of the Department’s Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training, from 2008 to 2012.Between 2005 and 2008, Ms. Nakamitsu was Professor of International Relations at Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo, where she also served as a member of the Foreign Exchange Council to Japan’s Foreign Minister, and as a visiting senior adviser on peacebuilding at the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Between 1998 and 2004, she was the Chef de Cabinet and Director of Planning and Coordination at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, based in Stockholm, Sweden.Earlier in her career, Ms. Nakamitsu was a member of the United Nations Reform Team of former Secretary-General Kofi Annan. She also held positions with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), including within the office of Assistant High Commissioner for Policy and Operations Sergio Vieira de Mello, and in UNHCR field operations in the former Yugoslavia, Turkey and northern Iraq.Born in 1963, Ms. Nakamitsu holds a Master of Science degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Law degree from Waseda University in Tokyo. She is married and has two daughters.

Maritza Chan Valverde.jpg

Maritza Chan Valverde

Maritza Chan-Valverde is a Costa Rican career diplomat, academic, and activist. She was appointed Ambassador, and Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations on 15 August 2022. Maritza Chan-Valverde is the first Costa Rican woman to occupy the role since Costa Rica signed the UN Charter in 1945. Prior to her appointment, Maritza Chan served as Ambassador, and Deputy Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations from March 2020 to August 14, 2022. Maritza Chan has more than two decades of professional experience at the highest political level. She has represented Costa Rica before the United States and multilateral organizations in both Washington D.C. and New York. She is an expert on international peace and security issues and an advocate for the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. She has been recognized by the United Nations
Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC), as one of the leading agents for change advocating for arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation in 2014 and 2021. Maritza Chan was Costa Rica's lead negotiator on the Arms Trade Treaty (2010-2015) and is currently

Vice-Chair of the Open-Ended Working Group on Conventional Ammunition, aiming to establish a new global framework for the lifetime management of ammunition (2022-2023). She has published multiple articles on her negotiating experience in arms control, non-proliferation, and disarmament. She has vast connections with international and regional organizations, as well as civil society and academia. Ambassador Chan served as Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations (2020-2022). In 2018, Maritza Chan returned to Washington D.C. as the Head of the Political Section of the Costa Rican Embassy (2018-2020) after acting as Coordinator of the Organization of the United States in San José, Costa Rica (2015-2017). Maritza Chan served at the Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations in New York (2010-2015). She also served at the Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the Organization of American States in Washington D.C
(2005-2009), and at the Embassy of Costa Rica to the United States in Washington D.C (2002-2005).
Maritza Chan started her career as a Senior Speech-Writer for the President of Costa Rica (1998-2002).

page15image129766128.png

Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti

Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti is a highly respected Brazilian diplomat, currently serving as the Brazilian Ambassador to the United States. Her career in international diplomacy is distinguished by her extensive experience in multilateral negotiations and her leadership in key global forums. From 2017 to 2021, Viotti served as the Chief of Staff to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, where she played a pivotal role in advising and coordinating the Secretary-General’s initiatives across a broad spectrum of global issues, including peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights. Prior to this, she was Brazil’s Permanent Representative to Germany from 2013 to 2017, where she strengthened bilateral relations and advanced Brazil’s strategic interests in Europe. Viotti's distinguished tenure as Brazil’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2007 to 2013 saw her preside over the UN Security Council in February 2011, where she was recognized for her adept handling of complex international security challenges. Her earlier diplomatic assignments include serving as First Secretary at Brazil’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations from 1985 to 1989, Counselor at the Embassy of Brazil in Bolivia from 1993 to 1995, and Minister-Counselor at the Brazilian Mission to the United Nations from 1999 to 2005. During this period, she was Vice-Chairperson of the Preparatory Committee for the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002 and led Brazil’s delegation in the preparatory negotiations for the International Conference on Financing and Development. Raised in Brazil, Viotti earned her bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees in economics from the University of Brasília. She further honed her diplomatic skills at the prestigious Rio Branco Institute before joining the Brazilian Foreign Service in 1976. Her various roles within the Ministry of External Relations included Director-General of the Department of International Organizations, Director-General of the Department of Human Rights and Social Affairs, Secretary-General of the South America Division, and Executive Coordinator in the cabinet of the Minister of External Relations. Viotti’s career is marked by her deep commitment to multilateralism, international cooperation, and the promotion of sustainable development. She is widely respected for her expertise in international relations; and her ability to navigate complex diplomatic landscapes. Throughout her career, she has been a steadfast advocate for Brazil’s interests on the global stage and a champion of international peace and development.

page16image79021776.png

Margot Wallström

Margot Wallström is a prominent Swedish politician from the Social Democratic Party with a distinguished career spanning national, European, and international levels. Known for her advocacy on human rights, gender equality, and environmental sustainability, Wallström has made significant contributions across various roles throughout her career. Wallström served as Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2014 to 2019, where she was a
key architect of Sweden's feminist foreign policy and played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s international relations. Prior to this, she made history as the first United Nations Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, serving from 2010 to 2012. In this role, she led critical efforts to combat sexual violence in conflict zones and worked towards the implementation of international protections for victims. Her extensive experience at the
European level includes serving as Vice-President of the European Commission and European Commissioner for Institutional Relations and Communication Strategy from 2004 to 2010. She also held the position of European Commissioner for the Environment from 1999 to 2004, where she advanced key environmental policies and initiatives within the European Union. Wallström’s national political career includes a series of cabinet posts in Sweden, beginning in 1988. She served as Deputy Minister of Civil Affairs, her leadership has been marked by a deep commitment to human rights, gender equality, and environmental advocacy. Margot Wallström continues to be a powerful voice for progressive change, influencing global policy and championing important causes on the international stage Minister of Culture, and later as Minister of Social Affairs, a position she held until the 1998 election. Her career also includes significant contributions outside of traditional government roles; she was the CEO of a regional TV network in Värmland, Sweden, from 1993 to 1994, and before she was appointed EU Commissioner, she was the Executive Vice-President of Worldview Global Media in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Born in Sweden, Wallström has a strong background in political science and public administration. Her 

bottom of page