Addis Ababa, March 7, 2025 (FMC) — State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano underscored that Ethiopia is working hard to enhance women leadership to more have the opportunity to serve in key positions of the diplomacy field.
In her remarks at the commemoration of International Women’s Day, she said Ethiopia is a model country for integrating and implementing international treaties, protocols and conventions meant for empowering women in various socio-economic and political dimensions.
Birtukan further stressed that the country reaffirms its commitment to empowering women and ensuring socio-economic and political rights of women.
In this respect, Ethiopia is exemplary in integrating and implementing international treaties, protocols and conventions that are meant to empower women in various socio-economic and political dimensions, the state minister noted.
According to her, Ethiopia has made significant strides in aligning its national policies with global standards, showcasing a commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Ethiopia’s “dedication is reflected in the country’s adoption of several key international agreements, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
Following the reform in the country, Ethiopia is actively engaged in creating a legal framework that supports women’s rights by harmonizing national laws with international commitments.
Moreover, Birtukan said that Ethiopia has made notable progress in increasing women’s representation over the last six years of the reform period.
The appointment of women to high-ranking political positions in the legislative, executive and judiciary branches of the government reflects the country’s commitment to inclusivity, she pointed out.
“For instance, 41percent of the parliament members and 50 percent of cabinet members, which may vary sometimes, are occupied by women politicians, showing practical improvements in empowering women into key political positions of the country,” Birtukan elaborated.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to champion women’s empowerment in diplomacy by equipping women diplomats with essential skills and knowledge needed for effective negotiation and representation, she said.
However, despite the progress made, challenges that hinder the full realization of women’s rights and empowerment in the country, and a collaborative approach is crucial to address the challenges in ensuring the rights of women in all spheres.