Ethiopia is making significant strides in promoting women's leadership within its diplomatic corps and across government, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, declared during International Women's Day commemorations. She emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to gender equality, citing its robust implementation of international treaties like Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the African Charter.
Birtukan highlighted the nation's progress in aligning national policies with global standards, noting that women now hold substantial positions in parliament (41%) and the cabinet (approximately 50%). According to ENA, she affirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' dedication to further empowering women diplomats through enhanced training and skill development. While acknowledging ongoing challenges, she stressed the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the full realization of women's rights in all sectors.