Carr-Ryan Conversations: Gender’s Impact on Bilateral Diplomacy

In this conversation, Ann Towns, professor of political science at the University of Gothenburg and visiting fellow at the Carr-Ryan Center for Human Rights, will present the main claims of her upcoming book: Imperial, Familial and Bureaucratic: Global Gender Logics of Bilateral Diplomacy. Dr. Towns argues that gender is integral to bilateral diplomacy, challenging the conventional view that it doesn't matter. She will explain how gender shapes diplomatic rules, influences postings, impacts interactions, and affects how diplomats present themselves.  

Desirée Cormier Smith, Human Rights and US Foreign Policy Fellow at the Carr-Ryan Center, will join this conversation to share her diplomatic experience as former Special Representative for Racial Equity and Justice. Desirée is a HKS MPP Alumna and started her State Department career as a Foreign Service Officer with assignments in Mexico, South Africa, and Washington, DC.  

The conversation will be moderated by Professor Kathryn Sikkink, Ryan Family Professor of Human Rights.