UNITAR is committed to advancing gender equality and inclusivity by equipping current and future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks to thrive in diplomacy and beyond. Ensuring meaningful engagement of participants across all regions, levels, and sectors is essential for inclusive decision-making, sustainable solutions, and policies that reflect diverse perspectives.
In collaboration with leading universities and trusted partners, UNITAR offers master’s programmes, leadership initiatives, and tailored training that address inclusivity and equality across diplomacy, technology, climate, and governance. These programmes are designed to build capacity, raise awareness of cross-cutting issues, and contribute to a more representative and equitable international system.
ACADEMIC PARTNERSHIPS
Through academic partnerships, UNITAR collaborates with leading universities to deliver gender-focused postgraduate programmes. These degrees combine academic expertise with practical UN training, preparing students to address global challenges in diplomacy, development, and gender equality.
University for Peace Master of Arts in Gender and Development
In partnership with the University for Peace
The Master of Arts in Gender and Development offered by UPEACE, jointly with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), aims to equip students with critical knowledge about gender studies in its intersections with development studies. Gain the skills to advance gender equality with this graduate programme focused on the crucial role of women in diplomacy and development.
Offered both in a Hybrid Format (asynchronous classes online and face-to-face on the UPEACE campus in Costa Rica), and an Online Format, this programme will allow students to develop the skills required for a successful international career in a variety of fields – diplomacy, development, politics, social work, human resources, human rights, teaching, research, policy institutes/think tanks, and others.
Students will also attend skills development sessions and coaching sessions that are designed to support their professional careers and employability. Careers in this field can be very broad. Prospective employers include governments, International and regional organizations, think tanks, academia, human rights organizations, and civil society.
(Hybrid start date; August – USD 19,500/year | Online start date: September – USD 8,700/year)
University of Stirling Master of Science in Gender and Diplomatic Practice
In partnership with the University of Stirling
This MSc Gender and Diplomatic Practice programme offers a distinctive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students will engage with modules covering gender concepts and debates, the history and philosophical foundations of the UN system, and receive hands-on training from seasoned UN professionals. Key skills for diplomatic practice, such as negotiation, leadership, and impactful advocacy will complement the theoretical element of this programme, equipping students for careers within international relations and diplomacy.
This 1-year full time, or 2-year part time programme launches in September 2025, and is taught in-person in Stirling, United Kingdom
(In-person start date: September 2025 – £10,100 UK / £21,800 International, annual)
Gender Dialogue Programme
The relaunched UNITAR Gender Dialogue Programme is a flagship initiative to strengthen inclusive participation and leadership across diplomacy and international affairs. Through a widespread range of activities, UNITAR provides a trusted space for dialogue, capacity development, and cross-sectoral exchange on the evolving role of gender in multilateral contexts.
By fostering collaboration and equipping professionals with future-ready skills, the programme advances more equitable and representative decision-making. This work is anchored in three thematic pillars:
1. Gender Connect: Build a global, supportive community that fosters dialogue, mentorship, and peer-to-peer learning for inclusive leadership.
2. Gender in Multilateralism: Strengthen diplomatic and leadership skills through a gender lens, ensuring inclusive participation in decision-making processes.
3. Gender & Innovation: Position UNITAR as a hub for exploring the intersection of gender, technology, and global challenges.
Upcoming Online Certificate: Women’s Leadership – Make Your Voice Heard
- Date: 26 November – 3 December 2025
- Format: Online (Zoom, interactive workshops)
- Fee: USD 800
- Duration: 4 days (12 hours)
- Language: English
- Registration: Open now
This certificate helps participants strengthen leadership capacity by exploring diverse leadership styles, persuasive communication, negotiation, and strategies to challenge gender stereotypes while cultivating authentic strengths.
Related initiative: Women’s Leadership Programme (to be continued) >
Previous Collaborations
UNITAR has collaborated with international partners to deliver tailored programmes that advance women’s participation and leadership in global affairs.
UNITAR–IOE Course on Women in Business and Management
This joint course with the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) focused on strengthening women’s leadership aspirations within multilateral diplomacy and global business. It provided participants with strategies to overcome gender-specific barriers and build inclusive leadership practices.
Learn More >
MORE INFORMATION
For more information on our initiatives in women’s leadership and gender equality, please contact our Gender Focal Point, Ms. Manon Balcaen, at manon.balcaen@unitar.org.