News in Press-centre

Vice-President for International Relations of Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU), Sherpa of Russia in W20 (Women's Twenty) Victoria Panova spoke about gender equality of opportunities and overcoming stereotypes at the discussion “The Role of Women in World Politics and Conflict Resolution” at Valdai Discussion Club. The discussion was dedicated to the problems of gender equality.

The experts discussed how important gender is in world politics, whether it is possible to speak of a special female approach to solving international problems and resolving conflicts, and whether gender quotas can become a real instrument of equality.

“It is important to ensure not mostly an equal representation of the genders in politics and diplomacy, but equal opportunities for both genders. This will give the best results and will contribute to what everyone gets according to their ability. This is exactly an individual approach. In our country, we need to build a healthy discussion on gender equality in such a way as to become a reference point for other states”, said Victoria Panova.

Victoria Panova also emphasized the need to overcome stereotypes that persist despite the development of legislation in some countries. For example, that diplomacy is not women's work. However, if women are involved in peace negotiations, then the chance that the agreement will last for a long time, 15 years and beyond, rises by 35 percent.

The speakers also spoke about the importance of combining female and male approaches and types of leadership in politics and diplomacy, as well as that the representation of both genders in a team has a positive effect on efficiency and allows you to achieve maximum results in resolving conflicts. The panelists stressed that gender equality is not only a fundamental right but also a condition for peaceful development and prosperity.

According to Victoria Panova, it is important to raise the topic of gender equality in the public field so that it does not cause rejection. Indeed, often the question is not only about the well-being of one woman, but the country as a whole.

Gender equality is one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals for the period up to 2030, as well as an important component of the National Action Strategy for Women for 2017-2022, Far Eastern Federal University actively participates and promotes its implementation in large-scale national and international events.