Ambassador H.E. Tamara Lisi Villanueva Fernández discusses the challenges, progress, and future of women in international relations.
SINGAPORE, 14 March 2025 – IN Diplomacy had the privilege of conducting an exclusive interview with Chile’s Ambassador to Singapore, H.E. Tamara Lisi Villanueva Fernández, as part of the Women in Diplomacy series. In this in-depth discussion, Ambassador Villanueva Fernández shared her experiences, insights, and perspectives on gender equality in diplomacy, the role of education in empowering women, and the ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity in global affairs.
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?
Early in my career in diplomacy, I struggled to be heard and taken as seriously as my male colleagues, often having to prove my expertise just to be acknowledged. Over time, I learned to assert my voice, developing self-confidence and drawing strength from the support of other women who shared similar experiences. However, women’s networks alone are not enough; I have been fortunate to work alongside male colleagues who respect and treat me as an equal. Achieving gender equality requires both men and women to challenge discriminatory practices, making them visible and condemning them, as it ultimately benefits us all.
Q: How did your education prepare you for a career in diplomacy, and what role do you think education plays in empowering women?
My education has played a crucial role in shaping my career. Studying Sociology equipped me with methodological and theoretical tools to understand diverse social, cultural, and economic realities, fueling my deep curiosity about other cultures and ways of life. Education is a powerful tool for women’s empowerment, providing knowledge, skills, and confidence to assert rights, make informed choices, and participate fully in society. It enables women to access better jobs, achieve financial independence, engage in political activism, and challenge traditional gender roles, ultimately driving gender equality and social progress.
Q: As a woman in a high-pressure role, how do you balance your personal and professional life?
Balancing personal and professional life requires strategic time management, strong support systems, and flexibility. At times, diplomatic responsibilities take precedence, but I strive to compensate in other areas. My husband, also a diplomat, shares family responsibilities, and we maintain open communication to support our children through transitions. With three teenage kids who have grown up in different countries, we create quality family moments to sustain our connection, even as they wish I were more present. The Residence staff also play a key role in maintaining a warm home and hosting official events. At work, I delegate effectively, relying on my Embassy team to handle daily operations while I focus on high-level engagements. Institutionally, our Ministry fosters a work environment that supports gender equality and work-life balance. Ultimately, resilience and adaptability enable me to lead effectively.
Q: What initiatives has Chile taken to promote women’s rights and empowerment, both domestically and internationally?
Gender equality is a fundamental pillar of economic, political, and social progress, essential for strengthening democracy and human rights. Chile is firmly committed to promoting women’s rights both domestically and internationally. In June 2023, we launched our Feminist Foreign Policy (FFP) to reinforce democracy, human rights, and gender equality in diplomacy. As a pioneer in gender and trade chapters, Chile has integrated gender provisions into trade agreements with countries such as Brazil, Canada, Singapore, and Uruguay, fostering greater inclusion of women in international trade.
At the UN, we actively support resolutions on the trafficking of women and girls, disarmament, and care policies. Regionally, we lead efforts to increase women’s participation in peace processes through the implementation of Resolution 1325 and engage in bilateral agreements with Spain, Mexico, Canada, and the U.S. on gender equality and women’s empowerment. Domestically, President Gabriel Boric’s government prioritises gender equality through policies addressing caregiving and gender-based violence. Care has been established as the fourth pillar of social protection, advancing a National Support and Care System, while the 2024 Integral Law to Prevent, Punish, and Eradicate Gender-Based Violence strengthens legal protections and institutional responses. These initiatives reflect Chile’s comprehensive approach to gender equality, combining policy reform with global advocacy.
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?
Addressing these issues requires systemic change through collective action and intersectional policies, ensuring women not only participate but also lead in shaping the policies that affect their lives. Diplomacy must integrate gender perspectives across multilateral, bilateral, economic, consular, and institutional frameworks, prioritising equal representation in international organisations and decision-making spaces. Strengthening women’s participation in global trade, supporting women-led businesses, and analysing gender agreements can drive economic empowerment. Consular services should enhance support for gender-based violence victims, mainstream gender perspectives, and establish protection networks. International cooperation must promote gender-focused development strategies, fostering women’s empowerment through education and leadership training. Institutional reforms are crucial to increasing women’s participation in decision-making, ensuring a violence-free workplace, and embedding gender and human rights training within institutions.
Q: Who are some of the women who have inspired you throughout your career, and what qualities do you admire about them?
I am fortunate to come from a family of strong, resilient women who have always led with integrity, compassion, and conviction in different aspects of their lives. They have had the strength to navigate both the personal and professional spheres, balancing strength with empathy, showcasing to me the power of decisiveness. These are characteristics of the women in Chile. An excellent example is former President Michelle Bachelet, who led our country for 2 terms. By their example, I have learned that leadership is not defined by the space you occupy but by the impact you make. Their resilience and vision have taught me that women can—and should—lead in every arena, shaping the world for the better.
Q: Can you share a moment when you felt like you were breaking new ground for women in diplomacy?
Serving as a Deputy Representative to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has been an incredibly rewarding experience and a powerful example of breaking new ground for women in diplomacy. In this role, I was able to contribute to shaping global policies on food security and nutrition, sustainable agriculture, fisheries, and biodiversity while actively participating in high-level negotiations. It was an opportunity to demonstrate that women are not only capable of engaging in complex, technical diplomacy but that we can lead with a unique perspective that emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and long-term solutions.
Q: How do you think women’s participation in diplomacy has evolved over the years, and what more needs to be done?
Diplomacy has long been a male-dominated field, and while women’s participation has evolved significantly, progress remains slow and uneven. Historically, female diplomats were excluded from decision-making roles and relegated to support functions. However, advocacy by women in diplomacy and global gender equality movements have increasingly highlighted the importance of their participation in shaping policy and international relations. Female diplomats have been instrumental in advancing issues such as climate justice, gender equality, and the rights of marginalised communities.
Today, there is greater recognition of the value of women’s perspectives in peacebuilding, human rights, and global governance, yet structural barriers persist. Limited access to leadership roles, institutional biases, and restrictive cultural norms continue to hinder progress. Addressing these challenges requires intentional efforts to create spaces for women in decision-making and support their leadership development. Additionally, integrating gender equality and intersectionality into foreign policy frameworks is essential to ensuring that diplomatic practices actively promote women’s interests and voices, ultimately strengthening global diplomacy and fostering a more just and equitable international system.
Q: What do you hope your legacy will be, both as a diplomat and as a woman leader?
As a diplomat, my foremost duty is to represent Chile, contributing to its development, improving the quality of life for our people, and advancing our national interests. As a woman in diplomacy, I strive to challenge the notion that leadership is inherently masculine and to promote a more inclusive approach. I am committed to leading through active listening, valuing diversity, and recognising the contributions of the entire team. My goal is to help shape a leadership model that is collaborative, equitable, and reflective of a broader vision.
Q: What advice would you give to women who are just starting in their careers and are looking for inspiration and guidance?
My advice would be to believe in the power of your voice. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo, ask questions, and advocate for what you believe in. The road may not always be easy, but persistence and determination will help you navigate obstacles. Building strong support networks and solidarity with other women and men is also important in any field. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of your own experiences, and be curious to develop your skills continuously.
Q: What advice would you give to young girls and women who are interested in pursuing careers in diplomacy or international relations?
Diplomacy thrives on diverse voices, cultural understanding, and empathy—qualities that women bring in abundance. Their unique insights are vital for shaping a more inclusive world. Stay curious and informed, and develop strong communication and negotiation skills. Take risks, pursue knowledge, and embrace perseverance and confidence. Progress may be gradual, but every step forward strengthens women’s representation and respect in diplomacy. Believe in your ability to make a difference, and never let gender define your potential!
Through her career and advocacy, Ambassador Tamara Lisi Villanueva Fernández continues to break barriers and redefine the role of women in diplomacy, inspiring future generations to lead with confidence and purpose.
