In today's episode, I speak with Dr. Noeleen Heyzer, a distinguished diplomat and international civil servant who served as Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Dr. Heyzer also led the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM), transforming it into a powerful advocate for women's rights and empowerment globally.

This episode was produced in conjunction with the upcoming International Women's Day, with the hope of getting more of us to reflect on the progress we have made and what is needed for the road ahead.

Dr. Heyzer speaks candidly about her efforts to empower women through economic security, break the silence on gender-based violence, and ensure women's inclusion in peace negotiations—drawing from her direct experience with peace processes in Afghanistan and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

She offers a thoughtful assessment of the UN's challenges in modern conflicts and her vision for reforming this critical institution for a new era.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Teaser/Introduction01:02 The Origins of The UN07:00 The Importance Of The UN For Countries10:06 Singapore's Journey and the UN's Influence10:56 Dr Heyzer's Journey19:20 Women's Rights In The 20th Century27:14 The Progress Made For Women's Rights34:55 Understanding The Tangible Impact of The UN44:03 The Role of Women in Israeli-Palestinian Peace Efforts46:56 Role Of The UN In Conflicts47:40 Challenges Facing the UN in Modern Conflicts52:46 Reimagining the UN for a New Era56:15 Advice for Future Leaders