Not everyone of us working in international relations comes from a country where gender balance is either ingrained in the fabric of society or a permanent policy goal on the governmental agenda. For some this is not an issue at all. Although women and girls bear the weight of taking our societies forward just as much as men do. They are the first affected in conflicts and the last to get redress when conflicts are over. Where women are empowered, participate fully and equally in the political, social and economic life and also exert leadership peace has a better chance. Therefore, when working in an international environment, I consider it necessary and normal to engage and speak out for gender balance not as a one-time task, but as a permanent one.