Diplomacy Through Her Eyes: Three Women, Three Journeys Across the Arab States

Diplomacy is often associated with negotiations, agreements, and high-level meetings. Yet behind these processes are individuals whose experiences, values, and determination influence the way nations engage with one another and how communities and countries are represented on the global stage.

As the world marks the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, women across the Arab States continue to contribute to international dialogue, peacebuilding, and decision-making. Their journeys are diverse, shaped by different national contexts and personal experiences, yet connected by a shared commitment to public service and leadership. Their experiences also reflect the gradual but important progress women across the region have made inaccessing leadership and decision-making roles in foreign affairs and diplomacy.

From a refugee camp in Palestine to international diplomatic forums, from decades of diplomatic service in Morocco to a historic appointment in Washington, the stories of Ambassador Amal Jadou-Shakaa, H.E. Ms Farida Jaidi, and Ambassador Jameela Ali Raja illustrate the many ways women are shaping diplomacy across the region.

From Aida Camp to the Diplomatic Stage

Ambassador Amal Jadou-Shakaa, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the European Union, Belgium and Luxembourg

Ambassador Amal Jadou-Shakaa’s journey began in Aida Camp in Bethlehem, where experiences of displacement, hardship, and community shaped her understanding of justice and public service.

Today, as Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg, she represents Palestinian voices in some of the world’s most influential diplomatic and political spaces.

Reflecting on the experiences that shaped her path, she recalls witnessing the realities of life under occupation while also experiencing a strong sense of belonging and solidarity within her community.

“Growing up in the Refugee Camp shaped my experience, that togetherness gave a strong sense of belonging to my country and a motivation and a drive to work hard to contribute to the alleviation of pain and suffering. This really moved me to work for justice and peace.”

Throughout her diplomatic career, Ambassador Jadou-Shakaa has worked to strengthen Palestine’s engagement with international partners and institutions, helping ensure that Palestinian perspectives remain present in international discussions and decision-making processes.

Her journey also reflects the increasing role of women in diplomacy and leadership.

“Representing Palestine is a badge of honor. It is not a job but a mission that I do with all of my heart.”

For young Palestinian women aspiring to public service, she emphasizes the importance of education, confidence, teamwork, and commitment, encouraging younger generations to pursue leadership while remaining connected to their communities and aspirations.

Her story demonstrates that diplomacy is not only about representing a state, but also about carrying the experiences and aspirations of people onto the international stage.

Dialogue, Peace and the Power of Representation

H.E. Ms Farida Jaidi, Former Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco

For H.E. Ms Farida Jaidi, diplomacy has been a lifelong commitment to dialogue, peace, and international cooperation.

Over the course of a distinguished career, she served as Ambassador of Morocco to Sweden, Brazil, and Paraguay, as Consul General in Montreal, and as Director of Multilateral Cooperation at Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Reflecting on the role of women in diplomacy, she says:

“I have always been convinced that diplomacy is a profession particularly suited to women.”

Throughout her career, she has witnessed significant progress in women’s participation in Moroccan diplomacy. Today, women lead numerous Moroccan embassies around the world, reflecting important advances in representation and leadership.

At the same time, she acknowledges that challenges remain.

Women in diplomacy often face greater scrutiny, are expected to prove their competence repeatedly, and continue to navigate social expectations alongside professional responsibilities.

Her experience has also reinforced her belief in women’s contributions to peacebuilding and mediation.

“Women favour dialogue, consensus and the search for lasting solutions. They contribute to the promotion of peace, justice and development.”

As a member of the Moroccan Network of Women Mediators, she continues to advocate for women’s participation in decision-making and peace processes.

Her message to young women interested in diplomacy is clear: believe in your abilities, persevere, and never allow obstacles to define your ambitions.

“Women should not have to prove their merit or competence more than others. Their presence in diplomacy enriches decision-making, fosters dialogue and helps build fairer and more peaceful societies.”

Her journey illustrates how experience, professionalism, and commitment can help create more inclusive diplomatic spaces for future generations.

Breaking New Ground in Yemeni Diplomacy

Ambassador Jameela Ali Raja, Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen to the United States of America

In April 2026, Ambassador Jameela Ali Raja became the first Yemeni woman to serve as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Yemen to the United States.

Her appointment marked a historic milestone for Yemeni women in diplomacy and leadership.

Over nearly three decades, Ambassador Raja has built a career spanning diplomacy, media, politics, peacebuilding, and human rights. She has served in government institutions, represented Yemen in regional and international forums, and worked with international organizations engaged in humanitarian action and peacebuilding.

Her contributions extend beyond traditional diplomacy.

She participated in Yemen’s National Dialogue Conference and later served as Deputy Chair of the Consultation and Reconciliation Commission, supporting efforts to strengthen political dialogue and national consensus.

She has also been a strong advocate for women’s participation in political life and was among the founding members of the Yemeni Women’s Pact for Peace and Security.

Her appointment to Washington generated widespread support and was recognized by many as a reflection of decades of experience, expertise, and public service.

Her journey demonstrates that leadership is built through perseverance, dialogue, and a commitment to serving one’s country, even during periods of uncertainty and transition.

Since arriving in Washington, she has worked to strengthen bilateral relations, engage with the Yemeni-American community, and support efforts related to peacebuilding, development, and institutional recovery.

From Taiz to Washington, her story reflects the growing role of Yemeni women in diplomacy and public life, while highlighting the importance of experience, competence, and dedication in leadership.

Women Shaping Diplomacy Across the Arab States

Although their journeys are different, these three women share a commitment to service, dialogue, and representation.

Their stories demonstrate that diplomacy takes many forms: carrying the voice of one’s people, building consensus, promoting peace, or opening new pathways for future generations.

On the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, their experiences remind us that women’s leadership strengthens diplomacy, enriches decision-making, and contributes to more inclusive and peaceful societies.

Across the Arab States, women continue to contribute to international dialogue, influence policy, and represent their countries with determination, expertise, and vision. Their journeys offer inspiration not only for future diplomats, but for all those working toward more equitable and representative leadership.