In advance of International Women’s Day, Europe House organised on 7 March a discussion “EU Cafe Connect: Conversations that Matter”. The conversation focused on women’s leadership, underrepresentation and the importance of gender equality in promoting prosperity and stability. The discussion brought together many leading figures from Bosnia and Herzegovina – both men and women – who are playing important roles in advancing gender equality in diverse fields, including culture, science, academia, business and sport, as well as Young European Ambassadors.
Representatives of the diplomatic community in Bosnia and Herzegovina were also active in the exchanges, including the Ambassador of Bulgaria Valeri Yotov, chargé d'affaires of the Embassy of Slovakia Patrik Turošík, Head of Communications and Spokesperson of the EU in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ferdinand Koenig, as well as EUFOR Gender Advisor, Colonel Nicolae Iacob.
_“I am glad to have the opportunity to discuss gender equality with so many brilliant representatives from different spheres in Bosnia and Herzegovina, all of whom are playing their part in pushing boundaries and creating a more equal society. I would like to congratulate them for their efforts and reiterate that gender equality is a core EU value that we will continue to advocate for and support,”_ said Koenig.
The dicussion highlighted the need for collective effort to ensure equal opportunities and a stronger voice for women in leadership, business, culture and beyond. Powerful female voices were joined by male allies to also take stock of their visions and challenges in supporting female empowerment and advocating for full and equal treatment of women across the society.
As part of the ongoing efforts of the European Union to address gender inequalities, the discussion also served as a platform for collaboration amongst stakeholders, sparking new initiatives and partnerships aimed at empowering women and amplifying their contributions to society. Panelists discussed the ever increasing need for more women in leadership positions across all sectors, including politics, business, culture and academia. The need for an intersectoral approach to gender equality was stressed as well as solidarity across different communities.
Europe House also opened a new installation “Her Chair”, dedicated to invisible pioneers, whose work and contributions to the betterment of society was often left in the shadows. From scientists who changed the course of history to artists who defied conventions, from fearless activists to forgotten innovators, the installation tells their stories and invites participants to nominate an overlooked woman from their communities.
Additionally, in front of Europe House, Young European Ambassadors presented a new exhibition “Why do Roses Wither” to raise awareness on pressing issues of gender based violence across the society and spark needed conversation and urge for systemic and comprehensive solutions.