In the latest Inside Geneva episode, Tatiana Molcean, Chair of the International Gender Champions (IGC) and Executive Secretary of UNECE, and Ambassador Matthew Wilson of Barbados, Vice-Chair of the IGC, joined host Imogen Foulkes to discuss the role of global leaders in advancing gender equality, turning principles into concrete impact, and responding to growing pushback.
Drawing on their personal professional journeys and experiences as multilateral leaders, they reflected on what it takes to use positions of influence to drive change: ownership, strong accountability, and a commitment to embed gender equality into institutional practices.
The conversation also served to introduce the broader scope of IGC’s work, including the links and intersections between gender equality and global frontier topics: climate, peace and security, as well as digital new and emerging technologies. With the network stretching far beyond Geneva through established and emerging hubs in other multilateral cities, both leaders highlighted the importance of adapting gender equality efforts to different regional contexts while continuing to address persistent gaps in political and economic representation.
The discussion further examined the consequences of the growing backlash against diversity, equality and inclusion. From budget cuts that disproportionately affect women and girls to narratives portraying equality as coming at the expense of men, Molcean and Wilson emphasized the importance of grounding narratives in evidence and positive communication strategies to challenge these claims and reach new audiences. They also stressed the need to recognise progress while remaining attentive to areas where gaps persist.
At a time when diversity and inclusion are facing renewed political and social challenges, the episode offered a timely reflection on how leaders can keep gender equality high on the multilateral agenda and ensure that it becomes embedded in institutions and societies.
Listen to the full episode now:
Apple Podcasts: International Gender Champions ... – Inside Geneva – Apple Podcasts
Spotify: International Gender Champions speak out - Inside Geneva | Podcast on Spotify