MUNICH, Germany –Gregory Michael
Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, Senator Natasha Akpoti- Uduaghan, took center stage at the 2025 Munich Security Conference (MSC), where she joined a panel of global leaders to address gender backlash issues in global peace and security. Speaking alongside the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, former Prime Minister of Finland, Sanna Marin, and the European Union’s Commissioner for Preparedness, Ms. Hadja Lahbib, Senator Akpoti Uduaghan emphasized the critical need for inclusive governance and gender-sensitive security policies.
The high-profile panel discussion focused on the increasing challenges faced by women in leadership, the resurgence of gender-based discrimination, and the role of women in peacebuilding efforts across the world. Senator Akpoti Uduaghan, known for her advocacy on governance, security, and economic development, brought a unique African perspective to the conversation, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of women in politics and decision-making in Nigeria and beyond.
In her address, she underscored the importance of breaking systemic barriers that hinder women’s participation in leadership, stating:
“The backlash against gender inclusivity in politics and security is not just a setback for women; it is a setback for global development. The world must move beyond rhetoric and take concrete actions to ensure that women are not just included in peace and security discussions but are given equal opportunities to lead and influence policies.”
Senator Akpoti Uduaghan also stressed the importance of strengthening policies that protect women from political violence and discrimination. She pointed out that Africa, like many parts of the world, is witnessing a worrying trend of regression in gender equity, with women in politics often facing intimidation and systemic exclusion.
The discussion, moderated by a senior policy expert from the MSC, saw a dynamic exchange of ideas on strategies to counteract the gender backlash and promote sustainable policies that reinforce women’s roles in peacekeeping and governance.
President Vjosa Osmani of Kosovo echoed similar concerns, sharing experiences from the Balkans, while former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin highlighted the Nordic model of gender inclusivity as a global standard. EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib emphasized the European Union’s commitment to strengthening women’s roles in crisis preparedness and security frameworks.
Senator Akpoti Uduaghan’s participation at the MSC 2025 reinforces her growing influence on the international stage as a champion for women’s rights, governance reforms, and security policies that are inclusive and equitable. Her advocacy aligns with global efforts to push back against gender regression and ensure that women remain at the forefront of decision-making in peace and security matters.
As the MSC concluded, the consensus among panelists and global delegates was clear: a collective and sustained effort is needed to counteract gender backlash and empower women to shape the future of global peace and security.
Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan’s powerful contributions at the MSC 2025 reaffirm her position as a transformative leader, not just in Nigeria but on the global stage.
