The Gap, in Numbers
What the
data says.
Share of women in senior diplomatic roles — ambassadors, permanent representatives, and heads of mission — across six world regions. 2026 figures are projections based on current appointment rates.
Figure 01
Women in senior diplomatic roles, by region
Source: UN Women, OECD, and national foreign ministries (2024) · Projections compiled for this campaign.
Reading the data
No region has reached parity. Europe leads at 32%, and even its projection for 2026 sits four points short of equal representation. The Middle East trails the field at 11%, a figure shaped by structural barriers to entry into foreign service.
Every region is moving in the right direction — but at the current pace, global parity in senior diplomatic posts will not arrive until the 2070s. Awareness, mentorship, and policy are the three levers that close that distance faster.
Global average, 2024
Average regional gain, 2024→2026
More durable peace deals with women at the table
Projected year of full parity at current pace