Indian-American Geeta Rao Gupta Takes Oath as Global Women's Issues Ambassador-at-Large

By: WE Staff | Tuesday, 11 July 2023

Geeta Rao Gupta, a successful Indian-American, created history when she was sworn in as the Ambassador-at-Large for the US State Department's Office of Global Women's Issues. Gupta's appointment represents a crucial turning point because she is the first person of color to hold this esteemed position.

At a ceremony on Monday, Vice-President Kamala Harris administered the oath of office. Gupta's confirmation for the role was supported by a Senate vote of 51 to 47 in May, showcasing the recognition and trust bestowed upon her by the government.

Gupta brings a wealth of experience in gender and development to her new role. Prior to her appointment, she served as a Senior Fellow at the United Nations Foundation and held the position of Senior Advisor to Co-impact, a global collaborative philanthropy for systems change.

Gupta has dedicated her entire professional life to promoting gender equality and combating issues of gender-based violence. During her tenure at the UN Foundation, she was crucial in the founding and operation of the 3D Programme for Girls and Women, acting as its executive director. Her contributions also extend to serving on oversight committees for the World Health Organization's Health Emergencies Programme and co-chairing the World Bank's Global Gender-based Violence Task Force.

Gupta's vision for her new role centers around promoting women's rights and tackling gender inequalities through US foreign policy. During her confirmation hearing, she highlighted the increasing gender inequality faced by women globally and emphasized the need for their full participation in the economy. With her extensive experience and expertise, Gupta is well-equipped to drive positive change in these areas.

Born in Mumbai, Gupta has earned recognition for her exceptional contributions and leadership. She has been honored with prestigious awards such as InterAction's Julia Taft Award for Outstanding Leadership, Harvard University's Anne Roe Award, and the Washington Business Journal's "Women Who Mean Business" Award.

Gupta holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from Bangalore University, along with an M.Phil and M.A. from the University of Delhi. Her educational background, coupled with her experience and dedication, make her a formidable force in advocating for women's rights and gender equality.

As Geeta Rao Gupta assumes her role as the Ambassador-at-Large for the Office of Global Women's Issues, there is great anticipation for the positive impact she will make in promoting the welfare and empowerment of women worldwide through US foreign policy.