Women’s Leadership at the Peace Table: Lessons from Burundi and Beyond

Why are women so often left out of peace negotiations—despite bearing the brunt of conflict and holding the key to lasting solutions?

Join us for a powerful CID Speaker Series event with Bineta Diop, African Union Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, as she shares first-hand insights from decades of leadership on the frontlines of international peacebuilding.

Drawing on the landmark case of Burundi's peace process, Bineta will explore how women leaders challenged exclusion, united across ethnic divides, and pushed their way into the negotiating room—ultimately shaping a more inclusive and enduring peace agreement.

She’ll reflect on why women’s voices matter at the peace table, how empathy and local knowledge can strengthen diplomacy, and what it takes to shift power in historically male-dominated processes.

This event is a must-attend for anyone interested in diplomacy, gender equality, international development, or leadership under pressure.

After the talk, join us for an informal Career Chat in Perkins from 1:15 to 2:15 PM to learn more about Bineta’s personal journey, her work with the African Union and UN, and how young professionals can help build more inclusive peace.

This event is hosted by Harvard’s Center for International Development in collaboration with W3D and will be held in a hybrid format. All are welcome. Harvard ID holders are encouraged to attend in person, while non-HUID guests are invited to join via livestream or access the event recording afterward.