Bangladesh Envoy Wins Women in Diplomacy Award

DHAKA, July 30, 2025 (BSS) – In a significant recognition of her outstanding contributions to gender equality, Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Abida Islam, has been awarded the prestigious Women in Diplomacy Award. The honor, presented under the category “Champion for Women’s Rights and Gender Equality,” was bestowed upon her during a ceremony at the Embassy of Mexico in London on Tuesday evening.

The event was hosted by the Women in Diplomacy Secretariat, a platform of female diplomats serving in London-based missions, committed to empowering women in foreign service. The award was presented by Josefa González Blanco Ortiz Mena, Mexican Ambassador to the UK and President of the Women in Diplomacy Network, in front of an audience of nearly 50 women diplomats representing foreign missions around the globe.

High Commissioner Abida Islam was commended for her consistent advocacy of women’s rights and her unwavering dedication to gender-inclusive practices across various diplomatic roles. Her leadership in promoting gender equality has been visible throughout her diplomatic career, including during her tenures as Ambassador to South Korea and Mexico, and now in her role in the United Kingdom.

Since her appointment as High Commissioner to the UK, Abida Islam has focused on strengthening institutional gender equality at the Bangladesh High Commission in London. She has also been an influential voice in encouraging women’s empowerment initiatives among the Bangladeshi diaspora in the UK, ensuring women’s participation in cultural, professional, and educational platforms.

Her commitment goes beyond symbolic efforts. Within the diplomatic mission, she has led inclusive policy changes and introduced mentorship initiatives aimed at young female diplomats and staff. Her efforts reflect a larger national push from Bangladesh to advance gender equity both domestically and internationally.

Abida Islam’s diplomatic career began in November 1995, when she joined the Bangladesh Foreign Service as part of the 15th batch of the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS). She has since held several strategic roles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka, primarily in departments focusing on international and multilateral relations.

Over the years, she has emerged not only as a seasoned diplomat but also as a strong proponent for gender justice and inclusive representation in diplomacy. Her approach combines professional excellence with a strong ethical stance on social equity, making her a role model for many young diplomats, especially women seeking careers in foreign service.

The Women in Diplomacy Network, under which this recognition was given, was established to highlight the contributions of female diplomats and to encourage broader participation of women in global diplomacy. The network fosters professional collaboration, mutual support, and advocacy among women posted in international missions.

Abida Islam’s recognition adds another milestone to Bangladesh’s growing global presence in gender advocacy. It also reflects the broader diplomatic shift toward inclusivity and acknowledgment of women’s indispensable role in shaping international policy and peacebuilding.

In her brief remarks at the award ceremony, the High Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Women in Diplomacy Network and reiterated her lifelong commitment to creating equal opportunities for women, both within her profession and beyond. She acknowledged the support of her colleagues, mentors, and her home country, Bangladesh, for enabling her to pursue this mission throughout her career.

Her award not only honors her personal achievements but also shines a spotlight on the transformative role of women in global diplomacy, particularly those from South Asia who continue to pave the way in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

This recognition stands as a proud moment for Bangladesh on the world stage and reinforces the country’s dedication to gender equity in international affairs.