Women in Peace, Security and Diplomacy
Held within the framework of the Sarajevo Security Conference 2026
Overview
The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) organised and supported the session “Women in Peace, Security and Diplomacy” within the framework of the Sarajevo Security Conference 2026, held from 4–6 September at Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica). The session focused on the growing importance of women’s leadership in international security, defence and diplomacy. Particular emphasis was placed on the need for women not only to participate in discussions on peace and security, but also to exercise direct leadership and command within military, defence and security institutions. At a time of increasing geopolitical instability, ensuring that women hold genuine decision-making authority in matters of national and international security is both a question of equality and an essential contribution to stronger and more effective leadership.
The ICD Members Delegation headed by Mark Donfried included Ann Linde, former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden; Eva-Maria Liimets, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia; and Hassan Diab, former Prime Minister of Lebanon. The discussion was moderated by Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh OBE, former Member of the UK House of Commons and former Member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Bringing together their experience in government, foreign affairs and international relations, the delegation highlighted the importance of women being represented not only at the diplomatic table, but also at the highest levels of military command, defence policy and security decision-making.
