Diplomat on International Women’s Day: ‘Why shouldn’t a woman be stubborn?’

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Blick: Madam Ambassador, two diplomats withdrew shortly before their appointment as State Secretary for Security Policy due to their private lives. Does the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs have a #MeToo problem?

Monika Dirt: I thought you wanted to talk to me about International Women’s Day. I don’t want to comment on your question. What I can say: As a woman, I have not had any negative experiences with the EDA. On the contrary, it is a pioneer in equality.

Why?

Many people talk about equality – Federal Councilor Ignazio Cassis is taking action. According to the gender equality strategy, women should make up at least 45 percent of top employees by 2028. 76 of the 115 Swiss missions worldwide already had a woman as head of mission. There is still a lot to do, but we are on track.

You have been a diplomat for 28 years. What negative experiences have you had?

Every woman has to hear a stupid saying at some point. I often get feedback that I am surprisingly stubborn. Why shouldn’t a woman be stubborn? Especially if it wants to promote Swiss interests.

Is there anything that annoys you as a woman?

I refuse to be an alibi or a quota woman. When I am invited to a conversation with six men, I say to the organizer: “We live in 2024! Do you want me to help you find more women? I can’t come alone.” As a feminist, I also regret the great uncertainty in society.

What do you mean?

Many men ask themselves questions like: “Can I still hold the door open for a woman? Am I even allowed to give compliments?” As a feminist, I also value good manners. I am happy to receive compliments – and I like to give them myself. We all need to lighten up a little.

Many men believe that women have an easier career. Is that correct?

No. Women in leadership positions do not displace men; they put an end to the exclusion of women.

Italy discusses femicide: more than a hundred women were murdered in 2023

Italy is rightly outraged by this high number. Sexism and machismo are still strong in Italy. It is good that so many women and men are taking to the streets and doing something. Giorgia Meloni and her opponent, opposition leader Elly Schlein, play an important role in this.

How? Meloni doesn’t exactly come across as a feminist.

Meloni has broken the glass ceiling. She is Italy’s first female Prime Minister. I am convinced that every Italian who watches the news at night and sees a woman running the country is presented with a new image of women. Meloni has no feminist agenda, but as a woman she still creates facts. And she is a role model for many Italian women.

Source:Blick