When participation becomes meaningful

Gender diversity and diversity of perspectives could bring benefits to the sustainability and effectiveness of the NPT regime. As States Parties look into the future of the NPT, it is important to consider questions related to gender diversity and inclusion in nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament, and peaceful uses of nuclear energy, such as:

• What can leaders do to promote gender diversity in the NPT?
• How to improve the quality of women’s participation in the NPT?
• How to promote women’s leadership in the NPT?
• How to make a career in non-proliferation and disarmament attractive and accessible to young women (e.g. mentorship schemes, support networks)?
• How can diversity contribute to all three pillars of the NPT?

Welcoming Remarks: Ann-Sofie Nilsson, Ambassador of Sweden for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation

Introductory Remarks: Izumi Nakamitsu, United Nations High Representative for Disarmament Affairs

Moderated Discussion:

• Heidi Hulan, Ambassador of Canada to the United Nations in Vienna
• Maria Cleofe Natividad, Ambassador of the Philippines to the United Nations in Vienna
• James Acton, Co-Director of the Nuclear Policy Program, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
• Sarah Bidgood, Senior Research Associate, James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies

This discussion is organized by Australia, Canada, Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).