​Every May 24, the world commemorates International Women’s Day for Peace and Disarmament, a date that recognizes the essential role of women in conflict prevention, mediation, diplomacy and the defense of human rights. Spain, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, places this agenda at the center of its external action, in line with its Feminist Foreign Policy and with the Women, Peace and Security – an international framework that promotes the full and equitable participation of women in peacebuilding.
A strategic priority for Spanish external action
Spain emphasizes that conflicts affect women, adolescents and girls differently, and that their participation in peace processes is not only a right, but a condition for achieving more lasting agreements and more resilient societies.
The Third National Action Plan for Women, Peace and Security (2025-2030)
(Minister José Manuel Albares during the presentation of the III National Action Plan for Women, Peace and Security 2025-2030)​​Among its main new features are:
- The integration of the digital dimension, key to the protection and participation of women in technological environments.
- The obligation to integrate the gender perspective into all foreign policy decisions.
- The intersectional and intergenerational approach, which recognizes the diversity of experiences of women and girls.
- Five priority lines of action:
o Crisis and conflict prevention.
o Full and safe participation of women.
o Protection of human rights and fight against sexual violence.
o Integration of the gender approach into humanitarian action.
o Institutionalization of the WPS Agenda (Women, Peace and Security).
Women as agents of peace: international commitment of Spain
Spain defends the idea that women are not only victims of conflicts, but key agents in the mediation and consolidation of peace. This is why it subscribed to the Joint Commitment of the UN Secretary-General aimed at increasing their full, equal and meaningful participation in peace processes.
Among the measures promoted by Spain, we can highlight:
- Ibero-American Network of Women Mediators. Spain is part of this network which promotes the presence of women in diplomacy and conflict resolution, strengthening their capacities and visibility.
- Group of Friends of European Union Mediation. Spain co-chairs this group with Finland, promoting a coherent approach that guarantees the participation of women in European and international peace processes.
- “Hear Us” conference of Afghan women. In December 2025, Spain hosted the third edition of this conference, a crucial space to amplify the voices of Afghan women and girls and mobilize international support for their rights.​
Defense of human rights and fight against impunity
Spain considers it essential to combat the norms and structures that perpetuate discrimination. Gender equality and the defense of women’s rights are essential conditions for building fairer societies and preventing future conflicts.
In this context:
- Spain makes regular contributions to the UN Women, Peace and Humanitarian Fund, which supports women’s organizations in crisis contexts.
- Spain has supported UN Women since its creation, with a contribution of 7 million euros in 2025.
- In matters of international justice, Spain supports the work of the International Criminal Court, particularly in the fight against crimes committed against women and girls.
   o In 2025, contributions amounting to 1.1 million euros were approved, including 300,000 euros for the Victims’ Fund.
​A firm commitment to a safer and more equal future
On this International Women’s Day for Peace and Disarmament, Spain reaffirms its conviction that lasting peace is only possible when women participate fully in its consolidation. The Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to promote policies, alliances and resources that ensure that women, in all their diversity, can exercise leadership in conflict prevention, mediation and rebuilding fairer and safer societies.
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