Despite some high-profile exceptions, including three female secretaries of state, women have historically been underrepresented in U.S. foreign policy and national security. In this discussion, women who have served in high-level roles will share their experiences working to ensure U.S. safety and to foster democracy around the world; the specific role they have played in protecting and promoting women’s rights internationally; and why it’s so important to include women in our country’s efforts abroad.
Former U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Malta
Over her 30 year career, Abercrombie-Winstanley has also served as adviser to the Commander of U.S. Cyber Forces, secretary of state’s special assistant for the Middle East and Africa, and in the Defense Department and National Security Council.
Retired Admiral of the U.S. Navy
Howard served in the Navy for 35 years and was the first African American woman to command a ship, the first woman to become a four-star Admiral, and the first African American woman to reach the rank of three-star and four-stars in the Armed Forces.
Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Distinguished Professor of Historical Studies, Henry A. Kissinger Center for Global Affairs, SAIS
An expert in the history of international relations, Sarotte is author or editor of five books, including The Collapse: The Accidental Opening of the Berlin Wall and 1989: The Struggle to Create Post-Cold War Europe.
Senior Fellow in the Center for Middle East Policy, Brookings
Wittes was deputy assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs from 2009 to 2012, coordinating U.S. policy on democracy and human rights in the Middle East during the Arab uprising. She is co-host of the weekly podcast Rational Security.
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