Washington, D.C., March 19, 2025 – Permanent Representative of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Chair of the Committee on Hemispheric Security (CHS), Ambassador Jacinth Lorna Henry-Martin, at the Inter-American Defense Board (IADB) Women, Peace, and Security Seminar, held at Casa del Soldado in Washington, D.C delivered compelling remarks centered around the theme “Strategies to Incorporate Women in Operational Activities in the Armed Forces”.
The event gathered distinguished leaders, defense officials, and experts to discuss policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening the role of women in defense institutions across the hemisphere.
Ambassador Henry-Martin underscored the historical significance of the moment, noting that, for the first time, the Committee on Hemispheric Security is led by an all-female leadership team. She emphasized the importance of inclusive policies in security and defense institutions, stating:
“The future of our security infrastructure depends on inclusive policies that harness the full potential of all who serve. Together, we reaffirm our shared commitment to a more inclusive, effective, and resilient security apparatus across our region.”
The Ambassador highlighted the critical role of integrating women into defense sectors, not only as a matter of equality but as a strategic imperative for sustainable security and peace. She emphasized that armed forces reflecting the diversity of their societies are better equipped to address complex challenges and enhance mission effectiveness.
Reaffirming commitments to global and regional frameworks, she referenced the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which laid the foundation for the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. This agenda focuses on four key pillars, prevention of violence against women and girls in conflict and post-conflict settings, Participation of women in decision-making roles related to peace and security, protection of women’s rights and against gender-based violence, and relief and recovery measures that empower women as active agents in post-conflict settings.
The Organization of American States (OAS) has demonstrated leadership through initiatives such as the CHS and the IADB, which facilitate exchanges of best practices to advance women’s roles in defense, security, disaster response, peace operations, and disarmament.
Ambassador Henry-Martin also acknowledged the progress made by OAS member states in implementing national policies to increase women’s representation in the military, eliminate discriminatory practices, and integrate gender perspectives into training programs. However, she noted that persistent challenges remain, including cultural norms, barriers to promotion, and limited support networks for women in military service.
Brigadier General Eduardo Villegas, Council Delegates’ Vice President of the IADB presenting a token of appreciation to Ambassador Jacinth Lorna Henry-Martin, Permanent Representative of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Chair of the Committee on Hemispheric Security (CHS).
Following the seminar, Ambassador Henry-Martin was presented a certificate and a small of appreciation by the IADB.
The IADB seminar on Women, Peace, and Security served as a crucial platform for discussion and collaboration on the path forward, reaffirming the shared commitment to advancing gender inclusion in security institutions across the Americas.
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