Washington, D.C. – In a powerful address at the NATO Women, Peace, and Security Reception, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken highlighted the indispensable role of women in advancing peace and security within the Alliance. Speaking from the Benjamin Franklin Room at the State Department, Blinken underscored the historical context and the continuing need to integrate women’s participation at all levels of NATO operations.
Seventy-six years ago, pivotal changes were enacted in the United States, allowing women to serve as regular members of the military and ending segregation within the armed forces. These reforms, though initially met with resistance, laid the foundation for a more inclusive and effective military. Today, Secretary Antony J. Blinken emphasized, the inclusion of women is equally crucial for achieving NATO’s strategic objectives.
Antony J. Blinken Statement
“When women enjoy greater physical security and their rights are respected, entire countries are more stable, prosperous, and peaceful,” Blinken stated. “This is not just a women’s issue; it’s a national security issue, an economic issue, and a moral issue.”
Antony J. Blinken highlighted the United States’ commitment to gender equality, referencing the National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality and the updated National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security. He praised the bipartisan support for these initiatives and recognized the leadership of Senator Jeanne Shaheen in advancing these causes.
Focus Areas for NATO: By Antony J. Blinken
Secretary Blinken outlined three critical areas where NATO must intensify its efforts:
1. Improving Women’s Participation
Antony J. Blinken stressed the importance of overcoming biases and obstacles that hinder women’s full participation in NATO. He noted that of the 32 NATO allies, only six have women as permanent representatives, urging for more significant inclusion of women at all levels.
2. Integrating Gender Perspectives in Digital Challenges
With the rise of digital technology, Blinken pointed out the need to address online harassment and abuse, which disproportionately affect women, girls, and LGBTQI+ individuals. He called for continued efforts through initiatives like the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse.
3. Sharing Best Practices Beyond NATO
Antony J. Blinken advocated for extending the Women, Peace, and Security agenda to NATO’s partners to foster stability and prevent instability globally. He highlighted recent U.S. initiatives, such as the Women, Peace, and Security regional centers in Colombia and Kosovo, and plans to launch a third center in the Philippines.
Support for Ukrainian Women:
A significant portion of Blinken’s speech focused on the resilience and contributions of Ukrainian women amidst Russia’s invasion. Ukrainian women have stepped up in various roles, from combat positions to humanitarian efforts, proving that “valor has no gender.” Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Ukrainian women fighters, Blinken announced that NATO Allies would provide over $7 million for equipment tailored to women’s needs, including bulletproof vests, uniforms, and boots.
Global Commitment to Women, Peace, and Security
Following Blinken, Irene Fellin, NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for Women, Peace, and Security, emphasized NATO’s commitment to gender equality as a core value of the Alliance. She detailed the upcoming endorsement of NATO’s updated WPS policy, which addresses challenges like gender-based violence facilitated by technology and the integration of gender perspectives in deterrence and defense strategies.
Foreign Minister Thordis Gylfadottir of Iceland and Senator Jeanne Shaheen also delivered remarks, reaffirming their countries’ dedication to advancing the WPS agenda and supporting Ukrainian women.
Antony J. Blinken emphasizing that the success and security of NATO
Secretary Blinken concluded by emphasizing that the success and security of NATO depend on the full and meaningful participation of women. He urged continuous efforts to empower women across all spheres, stating, “Our success and, yes, our security depends on it.”
The NATO Women, Peace, and Security Reception set a hopeful tone for the summit, highlighting the Alliance’s commitment to gender equality and the vital role of women in shaping a peaceful and secure future.
Priyanka Mallick International Fashion Designer & Member of United Nation For International Affairs statement
It is an honor to be here at the NATO Summit, especially during this significant 75th anniversary.
As An International fashion designer and Member of United Nations for international affairs I am privileged to represent my artwork, “Harmony’s Crown of Mother Nature,” which symbolizes peace and harmony in our world.
