2007 Press Releases

DCM Hosts Women's History Month Reception

March 22, 2007

On March 21, 2007, United States Deputy Chief of Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Judith Cefkin hosted a reception in honor of Women’s History Month. Ms. Cefkin hosted 25 prominent women, who represent the political, educational, cultural and media life of Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to facilitate an exchange of views on the roles women have and continue to play as "agents of change" in U.S. and Bosnian and Herzegovinian societies.

Addressing the invitees, Ms. Cefkin quoted US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice who recently stated: "The empowerment of women is irrevocably tied to the safety, security, and prosperity of the world.  The enfranchisement of women can no longer be simple aspirations.  Women are essential agents in bringing about change and an often overlooked resource in the preservation of human security, in overcoming transnational dangers, and in managing threats arising from tyranny, trafficking, poverty, and disease…. If women cannot participate in the political process, there can be no real democracy.  If women are deprived of economic opportunity, development is crippled.  If women are not educated, they cannot pass knowledge to their children, and there is not true security for the next generation."

Welcoming remarks were given by Ms. Cefkin and the event included remarks from Ms. Jane Nandy, Director of USAID in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Judge Meddzida Kreso, President  of the BiH Court and Ms. Jasmila Zbanic, BiH film director.