Gender balance policy in European diplomacy

Gulnoza Ismailova

Gender balance policy in European diplomacy

Gulnoza Ismailova

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the impact of the implementation of gender balance and gender equality policies on the implementation of the EUʼs foreign policy by analysing policies and quantitative indicators in the diplomatic services of the member states. For a comprehensive analysis, the implementation of the diplomatic missions of Sweden, France and Poland was selected. The research methodology consisted of studying official documents and reports of the European Union and analysing data on the composition of diplomatic missions. The survey results showed that Sweden is the most successful country in terms of gender balance among the sample, with 47% of women holding diplomatic posts. This is a direct result of Swedenʼs long-standing gender policy and active promotion of reforms. In France, the average is 26% of women in diplomatic institutions. Poland, due to the significant pressure of several factors, from economic to social, has low gender balance indicators not only in the sample but also in Europe as a whole. In Poland, there are about 21% of women in the diplomatic services. These figures demonstrated the existence of obstacles arising from “traditional views” and the lack of adequate state support. The study determined that although the percentage of women in the diplomatic services in Europe is 29%, the difference between individual EU countries is large and often depends on economic, cultural, and social factors. Although most EU countries have made progress in gender balance policies, the level of success has largely depended on several factors, such as national traditions, specific cultural and social norms, and the level of political freedom. The findings of this study can be used as a basis for additional research and formulation of recommendations for countries that face challenges in implementing successful gender policies

Keywords

social barriers; cultural stereotypes; career development; government initiatives; institutional barriers; sexism

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Suggested citation

Ismailova, G. (2025). Gender balance policy in European diplomacy. Foreign Affairs, 35(1), 34-42. https://doi.org/10.59214/2663-2675.35(1).2025.34