February 18, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the launch of the Women Foreign Ministers’ Group (WFMG).

The newly established group will act as a mechanism that will help protect and advance women’s full and meaningful participation in decision-making and leadership roles. It will be a powerful tool in amplifying the voices of women in global diplomacy and decision making at a time when the world is facing increasing polarization, conflict and intersecting crises.

By fostering a platform for collaboration, dialogue and joint action, the WFMG will leverage the unique perspectives and experiences of women in foreign policy leadership in support of more effective strategies for fostering peace, security, human rights and sustainable development.

The WFMG will support increased representation of women in international negotiations and decision-making bodies at all levels, as well as awareness and understanding of the importance of gender equality, protecting the rights of women and girls, and safe and inclusive spaces for women in politics and public life.

The WFMG will provide opportunities for women foreign ministers to collaborate to offer different perspectives on international issues within wider decision-making contexts such as the United Nations. Members of the Group will jointly initiate statements to voice common perspectives. Each calendar year, the WFMG will have two dedicated coordinators, rotating on a regional basis among members. They will meet in person at least once a year, or as determined by the coordinators.