H.E. Ms. Lisbet Quesada Luna, Ambassador of Cuba to Singapore, discusses her experiences as a woman in diplomacy, the evolution of gender representation, and the need for continued progress in the field
In an exclusive interview with IN Diplomacy as part of the March 2025 focus on Women in Diplomacy, H.E. Ms. Lisbet Quesada Luna reflected on her 22-year career at Cuba’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX). She highlighted the strides made towards gender equality within the ministry, where women now comprise 48% of diplomats, with 30% holding leadership roles abroad.
Q: As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, what challenges did you face in your early career, and how did you overcome them?
A: Over 22 years at MINREX, I have never felt treated differently as a woman, as opportunities for growth are available to all. While some leadership figures may resist change, the Ministry has made significant progress in gender equality as part of its broader social justice efforts. As of mid-last year, women made up 48% of Cuban diplomats, with 30 in director roles and two of the four vice-ministers being women. Additionally, 30% of heads of Missions abroad are women, including myself. Balancing diplomacy and motherhood has been possible with strong family and institutional support, and while progress continues, much has already been achieved.
Q: What do you hope your legacy will be, both as a diplomat and as a woman leader?
A: I feel a great pride in representing my country as a woman, demonstrating what our Revolution has achieved. I’m not looking to leave a legacy, but I will be happy to contribute to breaking the mold regarding diplomacy and contribute to peace, solidarity, mutual understanding and respect, and of course, to be remembered for having contributed a small grain of sand to the development of my country, to the well-being of my people, of which I am a part, wherever I have gone. May my colleagues and loved ones remember me for being a dignified Cuban and, no less important, a fair and good person. May my daughter remember me with respect and as a role model in good times and bad.
Q: How do you think women’s participation in diplomacy has evolved over the years, and what more needs to be done?
A: Women’s participation has undoubtedly evolved, with more women in leadership roles and high-level diplomatic positions than ever before. However, there’s still progress to be made. Structural barriers and biases persist, and the ratio of women in key diplomatic roles doesn’t always reflect their contributions or potential. More needs to be done in terms of mentorship, support for women balancing family and career, and advocacy for policy changes that promote women’s inclusion at all levels.
Q: What advice would you give to young girls and women who are interested in pursuing careers in diplomacy or international relations?
A: My advice would be to not be afraid to start small, ask questions, and relentlessly pursue your passions. To be a diplomat, it is essential to understand the different cultures and histories of each country, to understand the internal processes, and also to prepare very well and know your history in detail so that others understand our reality from our own experience and perspective. There will be setbacks, but persistence and being true to your principles are key.
Q: As a woman in a high-pressure role, how do you balance your personal and professional life?
A: Balancing personal and professional life is always a challenge, especially in high-pressure positions. I have learned to prioritize what matters most and be strategic with my time. It is also important to recognize when to step back and recharge and to have a support network that allows you to maintain balance. Ensuring that you set aside time for family and rest is often difficult, but it is crucial for long-term success.
Q: What support systems do you have in place to help you manage the demands of your job?
A: I am fortunate to have a supportive team. Having institutional support to advance diplomatic effort is essential. My family provides me with the emotional and practical support I need to move forward each day. Having a reliable team and a clear set of goals also helps me manage the demands of the job.
Q: What initiatives has Cuba taken to promote women’s rights and empowerment, both domestically and internationally?
A: Cuba has made significant strides in promoting women’s rights and empowerment, both domestically and internationally. The 2019 Constitution strengthened gender equality, continuing progress from the 1976 Constitution, while the National Program for the Advancement of Women ensures a gender-focused approach in public policies. Despite challenges such as the U.S. blockade, which deeply affects Cuban women’s economic and social well-being, the Revolution has transformed women’s roles. Before 1959, most women were housewives or worked in undervalued sectors, but today, they hold key leadership positions, making up 55.74% of Parliament, with female ministers, a deputy prime minister, and 10 women in the Council of State. Education and employment opportunities have expanded, enabling women to participate actively in all aspects of society.
Cuba has also been a strong advocate for gender equality on the international stage. It was the first country to sign and the second to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. Cuban foreign policy actively promotes women’s empowerment in key UN forums, such as the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Additionally, Cuba provides comprehensive maternity leave policies, allowing women up to 15 months of postnatal leave, with fathers or family members also eligible to take leave, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender equality in both policy and practice.
Q: How do you think the international community can work together to address issues like gender-based violence, equal pay, and women’s representation in leadership?
A: Globally, one in 10 women lives in extreme poverty; five women and girls are killed every hour by a member of their own family; and women, on average, earn 20% less than men for work of equal value. The international community must prioritize gender equality in every conversation and forum, making it a central pillar of global development agendas. This means stronger legislation, better enforcement of existing laws, and the promotion of women’s rights through education, employment, and leadership opportunities. Countries must also be held accountable for their progress or lack thereof in achieving gender equality. Collaboration between governments, international organizations, and grassroots movements is critical for change.
Q: Who are some of the women who have inspired you throughout your career, and what qualities do you admire about them?
A: Vilma Espín. A revolutionary leader and prominent figure in Cuba’s fight for independence and social justice, Vilma Espín played a crucial role in the Cuban Revolution. As an advocate for women’s rights, she founded the Cuban Federation of Women (FMC), which worked to promote gender equality in the country. I deeply admire her resilience, dedication to social transformation, and her ability to balance her activism with her role as a mother and wife.
Q: What advice would you give to women who are just starting in their careers and are looking for inspiration and guidance?
A: To women starting in their careers, be bold, be patient, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Surround yourself with supportive people, and never be afraid to ask for help or guidance. Most importantly, stay true to your values. The world needs women who are confident in their abilities and who are willing to push boundaries and innovate.
Q: Can you share a moment when you felt like you were breaking new ground for women in diplomacy?
A: As Cuban diplomats, breaking patterns is inherent in our process as we challenge global norms and prioritize women’s empowerment nationally and internationally. With 30% of ambassadors being women and over 120 missions reflecting our achievements, we continuously push boundaries through our diplomatic work. Most importantly, we strive to guide new generations to surpass our accomplishments and continue this progress.
Ambassador Quessada Luna remains hopeful for a future where gender equality is not an aspiration but a reality. Through persistent advocacy, mentorship, and structural reforms, the world can move towards a more inclusive diplomatic landscape.
