Sarah & Hajar Accords Forge Path to Empower Women Diplomats in West Asia

In a monumental move, the Sarah and Hajar Accords have been established to bring women diplomats to the forefront of West Asian diplomacy. Following the groundbreaking Abraham Accords that strengthened communication and trade between Arab states and Israel, this new agreement focuses on empowering women in the diplomatic arena. Named after Sarah and Hajar, the wives of Prophet Ibrahim and mothers of Prophet Ishaq and Prophet Ismael, the accord pays tribute to these influential figures and aims to revive the strength and courage that shaped the Middle East.

Developed by UNESCO Artist for Peace, Dr Guila Clara Kessous, the accord seeks to promote women's rights and elevate the role of women in diplomacy. Dr Guila reached out to over 30 prominent women in the region and Europe, including Nobel Peace Prize winners and royalty, to garner support for the initiative. The involvement of these influential women is crucial to convincing the governments of Israel, UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco to embrace this spinoff pact, which emphasizes women's rights and enhances their participation in the diplomatic process.

While still in the framework stage, the Sarah and Hajar Accords have garnered support from notable officials and leaders from each of the participating countries. Bahrain's Nancy Khedouri, the first female member of the country's Shura Council and deputy chairperson of the Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security Committee, has joined the initiative. Representing Morocco is Maria Belafia, an elected official in the Rabat region and president of the Economic Commission in that region. Afra Mahesh Al Hameli, the director of the Strategic Communications Department at the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, is also part of the accord. Additionally, former Knesset Member Ruth Wasserman Lande, a co-founder of the first Knesset Caucus for the promotion of the Abraham Accords, will contribute her expertise from Israel.

The proponents of the Sarah and Hajar Accords believe that women bring a unique perspective to solving even the most complex issues. Their diverse ideas and experiences, often overlooked in peace-building plans, hold immense potential for transformative change. This accord will bring together strong, well-connected, and experienced women to brainstorm initiatives, provide consultation, and contribute practical and business-related strategies to invigorate relations among the four nations involved.

Moreover, the Sarah and Hajar Accords represent a significant stride towards gender equality in diplomacy. It highlights the indispensable role that women play in peace-building and societal development, particularly in a region that has traditionally been dominated by male leadership. Women, with their ability to manage families and lead communities, possess the skills necessary to navigate intricate diplomatic landscapes and achieve consensus and harmony.

The implementation of the accord holds immense promise, not only in empowering women diplomats but also in catalyzing trade, cooperation, and prosperity in the region. By recognizing and harnessing the talents and perspectives of women, the Sarah and Hajar Accords pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future in West Asia.

As the world eagerly awaits the impact of this groundbreaking initiative, it is clear that women will play a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of diplomacy, fostering peace, and driving progress in the region and beyond.