Office of International Women's Issues

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Secretary of State Confers the International Women of Courage Awards
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs Paula Dobriansky today marked International Women’s Day 2008 by presenting the second annual International Women of Courage Award to eight women around the globe who have shown exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for women’s rights and advancement. This is the only Department of State award paying tribute to emerging women leaders worldwide and offering a unique opportunity for transformational diplomacy in the field of international women’s issues.

The honorees from Afghanistan, Fiji, Iraq, Kosovo, Pakistan, Palestinian Authority, Paraguay, and Somalia have transformed their societies and serve as an inspiration to the international community. They are among over 95 exceptional women of courage nominated by U.S. Embassies worldwide for their diverse contributions to freedom, justice, peace, and equality. [Press release | Secretary Rice's remarks and statement]

Senior Coordinator Andrea Bottner Visits Colombian International Woman of Courage Award Nominee
Senior Coordinator Andrea Bottner recently honored embassy Bogota’s nominee for the Secretary of State’s 2008 International Women of Courage award, Colombian National Police Captain, Erika Pedraza Murillo. Captain Pedraza puts herself in harm’s way on the front lines of Colombia’s counter-narcotics and counter-terror fight as a Black Hawk helicopter pilot. Captain Pedraza is a powerful role model for women in Colombia, especially given the hurdles she has overcome as a single mother in the traditionally male-dominated aviation field. While in Colombia Ms Bottner flew with Captain Pedraza to witness first hand the danger she faces on a daily basis. More

Courageous Women in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Beyond: A Record of Success in Democratic Transition
Senior Coordinator Andrea G. Bottner spoke at Heritage Foundation on March 5, 2008 in honor of International Women's Day and in celebration of the Heritage Foundation's 35th Anniversary. In her remarks entitled, "Courageous Women in Iraq, Afghanistan and Beyond: A Record of Success in Democratic Transition," she highlighted recent successes in democratic transition, showcased the courage of women standing up for liberty around the globe, and discussed some of the Administration's priorities for advancing human rights and democracy. [Full text] 

 Panel Focuses on Violence Against Women at Senior Roundtable for Women’s Justice

Senior Coordinator Andrea G. Bottner led a panel discussion at the March 12, 2008 Senior Roundtable for Women’s Justice entitled, “Case Study: The San Diego Family Justice Center.”  The San Diego Family Justice Center (FJC) was featured and discussed as a model and best practice in domestic violence intervention and prevention.  The panel included remarks by the founder of the FJC model, CEO for the YWCA of San Diego County and President of the National Family Justice Center Alliance, Casey Gwinn and Sue Else, President of the National Network to End Domestic Violence Fund.  An expert in domestic violence, Ms. Else has provided essential technical assistance for the Family Justice Centers in the U.S.  Continued

Ambassador Patricia Brister Leads U.S. Delegation to the 52nd Session of the Commission on the Status of Women

Ambassador Patricia Brister led the U.S. delegation to the 52nd session of the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) this year.  Three individuals were appointed to be Public Delegates to this year’s session of the CSW. The three are: Mary Taylor of Columbus, Ohio; Mary F. Buestrin of Mequon, Wisconsin; and Manda Zand Ervin of Ellicott City, Maryland. Director Andrea G. Bottner of the International Women’s Issues Office at the State Department also participated on the delegation along with other State Department officials.  More