A recent meeting with diplomats from around the world offered UP Political Sciences students a taste of practical engagement in international affairs.

Five University of Pretoria (UP) students recently joined a breakfast discussion on feminist foreign policy hosted by the Chilean ambassador to South Africa, Julio Fiol, immersing themselves in an insightful discussion on the emergence, evolution and future prospects of feminist foreign policy.

Feminist foreign policy encompasses the application of a feminist lens in foreign policymaking, implementation and actions, as well as the quest for gender equality within the international system. In essence, it aims to ensure that policies are inclusive of all individuals, their needs and vulnerabilities

The breakfast meeting was hosted as a prelude to a panel discussion on feminist foreign policy that UP’s Department of Political Sciences and the Embassy of the Republic of Chile in Pretoria will be co-hosting on 5 November 2024. Chile’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gloria de la Fuente, will be one of the panellists.

Held at the ambassador’s residence, the breakfast meeting offered International Relations honours students Nonhlanhla Ndimande, Rochelle Mazibuko and Kaitlyn Albertyn, Ruth Kasanga, and Public Management and International Relations undergraduate Tinaye Chikoto the chance to connect directly with diplomats pioneering this approach. The group, accompanied by their lecturer, Sven Botha of the Department of Political Sciences, engaged with representatives from countries that have adopted a feminist foreign policy, including Mexico, Colombia, Canada and the Netherlands, among others.

“In a time of geopolitical tension and competition, feminist foreign policy provides a unique opportunity for states in the Global North and the Global South to find solutions to important cross-border problems together,” Botha said. “Engaging in discussions like these allows our students to engage directly with global leaders and deepen their understanding of international relations. It’s an invaluable opportunity to learn about pressing global issues from those who are actively shaping policy."

The breakfast brought together notable diplomats, including Ambassador Sara Valdes Bolaño of Mexico, Ambassador Mária Del Rosario Mina of Colombia, High Commissioner Chris Cooter of Canada, Deputy Head of Mission Janneke Vrijland of the Netherlands, Minister Counsellor Jose Ortiz-Almonte of the Dominican Republic and First Secretary (press and political affairs) Dr Axel Bayer. Each representative hailed from countries that have adopted a feminist foreign policy.

“While striving for a common understanding of feminist foreign policy can advance international dialogue, it’s crucial to recognise that definitions vary globally and are shaped by the specific challenges each country faces,” said Kaitlyn Albertyn.  

“Embracing feminist foreign policy is a step in the right direction, and knowing that the Global South is leading with the implementation of this initiative is certainly a proud moment,” Nonhlanhla Ndimande added. “Feminist foreign policy not only challenges traditional power structures by prioritising equity, inclusion and human rights, it also gives women the power and voice to lead. I believe that its greatest benefit for the future lies in its potential to create more just and sustainable global systems, where women are central to decision-making processes and solutions.”

These enriching experiences exemplify UP’s commitment to empowering students through practical engagement in international affairs. By facilitating direct interaction with diplomats and thought leaders, UP not only enhances academic learning but also prepares its students to navigate the complexities of global politics. As they embark on their professional journeys, these students carry with them invaluable insights and connections that will undoubtedly shape their futures in the field of international relations.