International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID), observed on June 24, annually, celebrates inspiring women in fields of diplomacy and decision-making, around the world.

• While Armenian ambassador Diana Abgar is considered as the first female diplomat of the 20th century, female heads of state, like former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, former Minister of External Affairs of India, Sushma Swaraj, are some of the names that have played a vital role in representing their nation before the world. 
• The theme, “Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development” has been chosen for this year’s IDWID Inaugural Forum, organised by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT).
• Increase in the number of women taking part in the decision-making and diplomatic roles is a vital aspect of women empowerment and gender equality; which are essential to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The theme was selected to highlight these issues