The Diplomat
In the context of the celebrations of Emirati Women’s Day that comes this year under the logo of “We Collaborate for Tomorrow”, that was announced by the Mother of the UAE, HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Spain organized a webinar titled “The Vital Role of Women in Building Sustainable Societies.” on August 28th.
In the event participated two remarkable female examples of the Negotiators Team of COP28: Meitha Al Noori, Negotiator on Loss and Damage, and Asya Al Shehhi, Negotiator on Technology, Science, and Innovation. The meeting was also joined by Enric-Sol Brines, Director of Communication, and Teresa Martín, Head of Environmental and Climate Change Area, both from Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID); Margarita de Cos, Spain International Planning Committee Chairwoman at Global Summit of Women and Board Member at WWF Spain; and Maria Lourdes Uquillas, journalist from EFE Verde.
The event aimed at shedding light on the pivotal role that women play in building and nurturing sustainable communities across various sectors, ranging from social development to economic growth and environmental conservation.
Hosted by Ali Al Nuaimi, Head of Economic Department at the Embassy, he inaugurated the webinar by highlighting women’s roles in the environmental sector in the UAE which hold immense significance as they provide diverse perspectives, engage communities, raise awareness, drive policy changes, foster innovation, and serve as role models. “Their contributions are vital for achieving global sustainability goals, building climate-resilient communities, and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in environmental science and conservation”, he stated.
Both Meitha Al Noori and Asya Al Shehhi shared with the audience the highlights from their roles as negotiators in the COP28 and how the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day is truly significant to them as a crystal clear reflection of the support they have always received.
Moreover, Teresa Martín explained some of the remarkable projects they lead in the AECID by helping reduce the climate change effects on women in developing countries.
In addition to that, Margarita de Cos stated the importance of including women in international organizations that work on environmental sectors which can contribute to ongoing initiatives aimed at creating more equitable and sustainable societies.
Maria Lourdes Uquillas stated the importance of women’s role in environmental journalism throughout the years and she had the chance to tell inspiring success stories of women who have made significant contributions to sustainable societies, thereby serving as role models for aspiring change-makers.
Enric-Sol Brines concluded the webinar by highlighting the shared values between the UAE and Spain in including women in decision-making processes, diverse perspectives emerge, leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions. “Empowering women through education, leadership opportunities, and equal participation not only fosters environmental resilience but also contributes to broader social progress and a more equitable future”, he concluded.
