Iranian Women Prove Themselves in Politics, Diplomacy

The Times Kuwait Report

The diplomatic corps is not just a job, but a mission that carries within it personal, cultural, and human characteristics. With this vision, Maryam Hashemi, the second-secretary at the Iranian Embassy, chose to pursue a diplomatic career, driven by her passion and deep belief in the status of women and their role in society.

Hashemi says that the transformations that Iran witnessed after the victory of the Islamic Revolution, particularly with regard to redefining the role of women, were a fundamental motivation for her. The emphasis on the status of women from an Islamic perspective enabled her to enter multiple fields, particularly academic and cultural. This positive climate inspired her to enter the political and diplomatic spheres, alongside her academic and professional interests, in order to prove that women have a solid place in the public sphere.

Hashemi believes that the global political arena has long been dominated by men. However, the emergence of women’s capabilities and the development of their potential have given them the opportunity to gain trust and offer effective solutions to various issues, giving them equal opportunities in diplomatic work alongside their male colleagues.

She believes that personal qualities play a pivotal role in shaping each individual’s diplomatic style. A balanced sensitivity and the ability to manage conflicts constructively are essential, especially in issues related to international relations. In this context, a woman’s presence becomes more profound if she is able to influence public opinion and contribute to raising her country’s voice on the international stage.

Speaking of her personal experience, Hashemi emphasizes that diplomatic work relies on a collective spirit, and that achievements come through cooperation and consultation with colleagues in the field. She points out that the moments when work culminates in positive results are a source of personal and professional pride and satisfaction.

She believes that leadership qualities in diplomacy are embodied in prioritizing the national interest, accurate analysis, the ability to make timely decisions, and reliance on consultation and realism, while capitalizing on opportunities to support the country’s foreign policy.

Hashemi’s advice to young women who are interested in entering the diplomatic corps is clear: Continuously keeping up with domestic, regional, and international political developments and reading political and historical memoirs provides them with the analytical background necessary to deeply understand issues, which is an important foundation for building a successful diplomatic personality.

She points out that diplomacy not only represents the state at the official level, but also reflects society in all its diversity. From this perspective, Iranian diplomacy seeks to present a comprehensive picture of the country’s cultural diversity, whether through social events or cultural and artistic performances organized by Iranian embassies overseas, including the Iranian Embassy in Kuwait, with the aim of introducing other societies to Iran’s rich cultural heritage.

Regarding her experience in Kuwait, Hashemi describes it as “distinctive and rich,” as she lives within a society that clings to its cultural and religious roots despite all the trappings of modernity. This balance between tradition and modernity has given her a deeper understanding of human relations and has contributed to refining her professional and personal experience.

She asserts that this experience has strengthened her conviction in her ability to leave an effective impact through diplomatic work.With this balanced presence and profound vision, Maryam Hashemi continues to represent a model of the educated and efficient Iranian woman, advancing steadily in the diplomatic corps, raising the banner of dialogue and cultural understanding, armed with awareness, knowledge, and openness.