Council of Europe Honors Women in Multilateralism

Embracing Equality in Multilateralism: A Call for Women’s voices

Ahead of International day of women in Multilateralism, the Council of Europe held a significant event, demonstrating it’s unwavering commitment to gender equality. Organized by the Informal Network of Women Deputies of Permanent Representations and the Luxembourg Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, the gathering shone a spotlight on crucial issues like multilateralism and empowering women.

Patrick Engelberg, Luxembourg’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe, underscored the importance of “promoting living together,” a central focus of the Luxembourg Presidency. Drawing from his extensive experience in Brussels, he witnessed firsthand the transformative power of increasing female representation in diplomacy. “The tone changed, male rivalry diminished, and sensitive issues were addressed with greater openness,” he noted.

Beyond highlighting these positive shifts, Deputy secretary General Bjørn Berge issued a powerful call to action. He acknowledged the shared challenges facing both multilateralism and gender equality, notably the concerning lack of female leadership in global positions during the crucial 2024 elections.Persistent to lead by example, Berge pledged, “I pledge not to participate in male-only panels—a small but significant step toward inclusivity.”

The event hosted insightful discussions with influential women leaders: Marialena Tsirli,Registrar of the European Court of Human rights,Gunn Jorid Roset,Acting Director General of the Multilateral Department at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs,Anne Goedert,Ambassador-at-Large for Human Rights at the Luxembourg Ministry of foreign and European Affairs,and Begoña Lasagabaster,UNESCO’s Director for Gender Equality,who contributed via a pre-recorded message.

The message resonated powerfully: women’s voices are essential to shaping a more equitable and effective future for multilateralism.

Embracing Equality in Multilateralism: A Conversation with Patrick Engelberg

Gender equality is not just a social issue; it’s a crucial component of effective global cooperation. Patrick Engelberg, Luxembourg’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe, knows this firsthand. As his contry’s presidency of the Committee of Ministers emphasizes “promoting living together,” Engelberg sheds light on the intersection of multilateralism and gender equality.

“Multilateralism is about fostering cooperation and dialog among nations,” Engelberg stresses. “gender equality is a crucial aspect of this, as it ensures that all voices are heard and all perspectives are considered.” This outlook underscores the belief that a balanced and inclusive approach is essential for finding effective solutions to global challenges.

Engelberg’s own experience within the Council of Europe has witnessed the positive impacts of increasingly diversifying the diplomatic landscape. “The presence of more women has brought about a shift in tone and approach,” he observes. “Ther’s been a reduction in male rivalry, and sensitive issues are addressed with greater openness and understanding. It’s led to more nuanced, inclusive decision-making.”

Bjørn Berge, Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe, recently pledged not to participate in male-only panels. This bold statement underscores the concrete steps individuals can take to advance gender equality. “It’s about leading by example, as Bjørn has done,” Engelberg emphasizes. “It’s also about mentoring and supporting women in their careers, challenging stereotypes, and creating more inclusive policies and practices. Every individual and organization can play a part.”

Engelberg’s perspective underscores the vital role of leadership in creating a more equitable and inclusive world.By championing gender equality, multilateral institutions can tap into the full potential of their membership and pave the way for a more enduring and peaceful future.

Breaking Barriers: A Vision for Women in Global Leadership

As the world turns its gaze towards the 2024 elections and beyond, the conversation surrounding inclusivity in leadership continues to gain momentum.Patrick (PE), a prominent figure in global affairs, offers a bold vision for the future, emphasizing the crucial role of women in shaping a more balanced and equitable world.

“My vision is one where women are equally represented and their voices are heard,” PE stated during a recent interview. “I believe this will lead to more balanced,peaceful,and inclusive decision-making,benefiting not just women,but everyone.”

PE’s statement highlights the undeniable truth that diverse perspectives are essential for effective leadership. When women are included at the decision-making table, the outcomes are demonstrably more well-rounded and beneficial for all. The inclusion of women’s experiences, insights, and leadership styles fosters collaboration, innovation, and a deeper understanding of the complexities facing our global community.

The journey towards gender equality in leadership is ongoing, requiring collective effort and unwavering commitment. As PE aptly summarized, “It’s a journey we must all continue together.” by actively supporting and celebrating women in leadership roles, we can collectively forge a more inclusive and prosperous future for generations to come.

What impact do you think pledges like Deputy Secretary General Bjørn Berge’s to not participate in male-only panels can have?

Interview with Patrick Engelberg, Luxembourg’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe

Archyde, January 22, 2025

Archyde correspondent (AC): Good afternoon, Ambassador Engelberg.Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today.You’ve been a key figure in Luxembourg’s presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers, focusing on “promoting living together.” Can you tell us more about this initiative and its connection to gender equality?

Patrick Engelberg (PE): Thank you for having me. Indeed, Luxembourg’s presidency slogan, “promoting living together,” is about fostering a more inclusive and cohesive society. It’s in this context that we’ve chosen to prioritize gender equality. After all, living together effectively means recognizing and respecting the diversity of voices, identities, and perspectives.

AC: That’s an insightful perspective. In your experience, how does gender equality contribute to effective multilateralism?

PE: Multilateralism is about fostering cooperation and dialog among nations. Gender equality is a crucial aspect of this, as it ensures that all voices are heard and all perspectives are considered. Frequently, decisions made without the input of half the population result in policies that don’t serve everyone. We see this reflected in the unbalanced representation of women in global leadership positions and the underrepresentation of women’s experiences in policy-making.

AC: You mentioned your experience in Brussels and the transformative power of increased female representation in diplomacy. Can you elaborate on that?

PE: Absolutely.I’ve witnessed firsthand how increasing the number of women in diplomacy changes the tone and dynamics of discussions. Male rivalry seemed to diminish, and sensitive issues were addressed with greater openness and a more collective approach. This is not to say that more women mean better policies, but rather that diversity in leadership promotes a richer, more nuanced discourse and decision-making process.

AC: I’d like to discuss the Council of Europe’s recent event focused on women in multilateralism. Deputy Secretary general Bjørn Berge pledged not to participate in male-only panels. What impact do you think such pledges can have?

PE:berg’s pledge is a small but meaningful step towards inclusivity. It sends a strong signal that male-only panels are no longer acceptable.By taking a stand, he encourages others to do the same, helping to challenge the norm and promote more balanced representation. It’s essential to remember that such pledges are just one piece of a larger puzzle, and that we need systemic changes to truly achieve gender equality.

AC: Speaking of systemic changes, the Council of Europe has adopted a new Gender Equality Strategy until 2029. How does this strategy address the persisting challenges in gender equality?

PE: The new strategy is a crucial step forward. It places a greater emphasis on intersectionality, ensuring that it addresses the interactions between gender and other factors such as race, class, sexual orientation, and disability. By acknowledging the diverse experiences of women, the strategy aims to make a gender-equal Europe for everyone, leaving no one behind.

AC: Ambassador Engelberg, thank you for your insightful answers. Your dedication to gender equality is commendable and inspiring.We appreciate your time and wish you all the best in your continued efforts.

PE: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this crucial issue. It’s a collective effort, and we all have a role to play in promoting gender equality and effective multilateralism.