Women in International Security

WIIS Brussels is a non-profit association working to amplify women’s voices and advance gender equality in security, defence, and international relations.

organisation

What is WIIS

WIIS Brussels is part of a global network promoting women’s leadership in international security and advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

THE PEOPLE

Who we are

WIIS Brussels is a volunteer-led organisation. Its activities are led by a Steering Committee (SC), with support from members who contribute to specific initiatives.

Members Engaged

Workshops Conducted

Empowering Voices

What do we do?

We foster women’s leadership through mentoring, training, events, and platforms that strengthen their visibility and expertise in security, defence, and international relations.

We also engage with the global WIIS network and partners to contribute to discussions on gender equality, women’s rights, and Women, Peace and Security.

Consultations on Security

Through our consultations on security, our members have the opportunity to discuss with primary actors their perceptions of security challenges in their local contexts and the world in an interactive way and safe space.

Mentoring

Our mentoring programme supports women in international relations, security, and defence through tailored professional development.

Events

From expert discussions to networking sessions, our events create space for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and professional connections.

Training workshops

We offer workshops focused on security, defence, international affairs, and career development to strengthen skills and support professional growth.

Events and Trainings

Series:

  • Event

    “Conversations WITH” Dora Meredith, Director of ODI Europe

    May 20, 2026 • 18:30

    Join us for an informal “Conversations WITH” session featuring Dora Meredith, who currently serves as the Director of ODI Europe!

    Read more
  • Event

    “Conversations WITH” Aude Maio-Coliche, European External Action Service’s Ambassador for Equality and Deputy Managing director for Africa

    May 12, 2026 • 18:30

    Join us for an informal “Conversations WITH” session featuring Aude Maio-Coliche, who currently serves as the European External Action Service’s Ambassador for Equality and as Deputy Managing director for Africa!

    Read more
  • Event

    Winter Happy Hour – Christmas edition

    December 4, 2025 • 18:30

    Join us for an exciting evening of networking, connection, and celebration at our WIIS Happy Hour, XMAS edition!

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professional development scheme

Mentoring programme

The WIIS Brussels mentoring programme is a professional development scheme for women active in the fields of international relations, security and defence. It offers women professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills, seek advice, and discuss the challenges and opportunities they encounter in their professional lives. 

  • 6-month structured mentoring journey
  • One-to-one mentor matching
  • Workshops & networking access
  • Volunteer mentors from EU, NATO & beyond
MEMBERSHIP

Come and join us!

Membership of WIIS Brussels is a great way to actively engage with women professionals in the field of security, defence and international relations and to promote greater gender equality.

Our members enjoy access to all events, training workshops, networking happy hours, and may apply to our mentoring programme.

Join us in shaping a safer and more inclusive future for all!

Publications

Recent announcements, expert contributions and organisational updates.

News & Updates

  • 9 May 2026

    International Women’s Day 2026

    WIIS Brussels would like to pay tribute to all the women suffering, resisting and fighting in conflicts. Russia’s war against Ukraine is now in its fourth year, and there is war in Gaza and in Iran involving sixteen countries across the Middle East, as well as in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Pakistan and Afghanistan, Thailand and Cambodia, and many other countries.

    Read more
  • 19 April 2026

    Change it to something new here

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    Read more
  • 5 March 2025

    International Women’s Day 2025

    WIIS Brussels marks International Women’s Day 2025 with a call to champion women’s leadership and inclusion across peace and security.

    Read more
  • 3 March 2025

    2024 Report

    A snapshot of WIIS Brussels’ 2024 impact, highlighting community growth, key initiatives, and lessons shaping the year ahead.

    Read more

Contact Us

Have a question or want to connect?
Email us at info@wiis-brussels.org or use the contact form.