Baroness Harriet Harman has been appointed the new UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls, pledging to champion gender equality and push for the protection of women’s rights worldwide.
The former minister, a long-standing advocate for women’s rights, will take on the role of coordinating efforts across the globe to promote reproductive health, access to education, and freedom from gender-based violence. The Foreign Office announced her appointment on International Women’s Day, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to advancing gender equality on the global stage.
‘The job is far from done’
Following her appointment, Baroness Harman emphasised the continued struggle for women’s rights, acknowledging progress but stressing that much work remains.
“Over the last decades, we have made tremendous strides towards ending women’s inequality. But the job is far from done. Women and girls are still not equal, and many still face oppression, violence, and discrimination,” she said.
She added that Britain would play a “key role” in standing up for the rights of women and girls at a time when hard-won freedoms remain under threat in many parts of the world.
“It’s a great honour to have been appointed UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls, and I look forward to driving this important work,” she said. “The UK will, in coalition with women around the world, play a key role in standing up for the rights of all women and girls at a critical time.”
Government commitment to women’s rights
The appointment comes at a significant moment, following the resignation of former International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds. Ms Dodds stepped down in protest over recent cuts to the foreign aid budget, which were redirected towards increased defence spending. Critics have warned that reductions in aid could undermine efforts to support women’s rights and development projects worldwide.
However, Foreign Secretary David Lammy reaffirmed the government’s commitment to gender equality, calling Baroness Harman’s appointment a crucial step in the UK’s efforts to accelerate change.
“I am delighted to appoint Harriet Harman as the new UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls,” Mr Lammy said. “Accelerating action on equality for women and girls is vital to delivering the global economic growth we need and a safer, more secure world.”
He praised Baroness Harman’s long-standing record of championing gender equality, adding: “Harriet has spent her career advocating for women’s rights. Her record of achievement and personal commitment make her a formidable advocate for the rights and empowerment of women and girls around the world.”
A pioneering career in politics
Baroness Harman is one of the most influential figures in British politics regarding women’s rights. She served as the Labour MP for Peckham for over 40 years, holding various ministerial roles, including the women and equalities brief in the New Labour governments of Sir Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
She was also deputy leader of the Labour Party from 2007 to 2015 and twice acted as interim leader following the resignations of Mr Brown and Ed Miliband. Throughout her political career, she has been a vocal advocate for gender equality, introducing key legislative reforms and championing policies aimed at improving women’s representation and rights.
Support from colleagues
Baroness Harman’s appointment has been widely welcomed, with Labour colleagues and campaigners praising her dedication to women’s rights.
Baroness Chapman of Darlington, who took over as International Development Minister following Ms Dodds’ resignation, described her as a “legend” in the fight for gender equality.
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“Harriet Harman is a legend on women’s rights and is rightly regarded as a pioneer and an inspiration to women in the UK and across the world, including me,” she said. “I am thrilled she has been appointed Special Envoy, and I look forward to working with her on protecting hard-won rights and creating more opportunities for women.”
Looking ahead
Baroness Harman now faces the challenge of ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of international efforts to advance gender equality. Her role will involve working with governments, organisations, and activists worldwide to strengthen policies that protect women’s rights and tackle discrimination.
With global progress on gender equality facing increasing threats, her appointment signals the UK’s intention to remain an active player in pushing for change. However, the effectiveness of her role may depend on whether the government matches its words with financial commitments to international development projects supporting women and girls.
As she takes on the new position, Baroness Harman’s decades of experience in fighting for women’s rights will be key in shaping the UK’s role in the global push for equality.
