Air Force education, the WPS agenda and women’s rights

In this special three-part episode:

Alex Bristow speaks to Brigadier General Linell Letendre, the Dean of Faculty at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. They discuss the long-standing Australia-US cadet exchange programs and the importance of STEM in military education. They also discuss the repeal of the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy in the US, and how the culture has changed in the Air Force. Linell also discusses her use of the #warfighterscholar handle on social media, including what it means and aims to do.

Next, Daria Impiombato interviews Irene Fellin, the NATO Secretary General's Special Representative for Women, Peace and Security. They discuss the Women, Peace and Security agenda, its role in the online space, and NATO’s role in advancing the priorities of the agenda. They also explore the dangers that female activists face today, and offer advice to young women considering a career in the field.

Finally, Daria speaks to Macarena Sáez, Executive Director of the Women’s Rights Division at Human Rights Watch. They discuss the connection between national security and human rights, as well as the current state of women's rights around the world. They also outline what Australia can do to promote women’s rights on the global stage, and explore how the erosion of women’s rights is often the first sign of a step towards authoritarianism.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://dppa.un.org/en/women-peace-and-security

Guests:

Alex Bristow

Brigadier General Linell Letendre

Daria Impiombato

Irene Fellin

Macarena Sáez

Music: "Long Walk" by Ketsa, licensed with permission from the Independent Music Licensing Collective - imlcollective.uk