Women in Diplomacy: Targets and Quotas

by Marta Kozielska

This policy brief examines how gender targets and quotas can be used to address the underrepresentation of women in diplomacy, drawing on existing research and lessons from women diplomats and practitioners. It explores both their potential to accelerate meaningful, measurable change and the risks of tokenism or superficial implementation, highlighting the importance of strong enforcement, monitoring, accountability, and institutionalisation.

Access on LSE Research Online

About the Author:

Marta Kozielska is the co-founder and manager of the Women in Diplomacy Project at LSE IDEAS, where she oversees the project’s activities and strategic vision. Marta is a policy analyst and advisor specialising in the design, delivery, and evaluation of evidence-based policies and programmes, across the UK and EU. Her work focuses on social and financial inclusion, gender equality, fundamental rights, and international governance, having worked across academia, think tanks, public sector consulting, and government.