Canada's first ambassador for women, peace and security hails from right here in St. Albert.
The federal government announced last week former St. Albert resident Jacqueline O'Neill has been appointed to the role. O'Neill is a graduate of St. Albert Catholic High School and is the daughter of Mary O'Neill, a former MLA and Catholic school board trustee, and Jack O'Neill, a former Alberta deputy minister.
“I’m profoundly honored to be appointed Canada’s first Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security,” Jacqueline said in a statement.“‘Women, peace, and security’ is about recognizing that one of the most powerful ways to prevent violent conflict and build more secure and resilient communities, both at home and abroad, is by ensuring that women are involved in the decisions that affect their lives. “
The St. Albert product got her bachelor’s degree in commerce from the University of Alberta and went on to get her masters in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
O’Neill has spent her career supporting the creation of national strategies for more than 30 countries and has worked with NATO, the Organization for Secrurity and Co-operation in Europe and the United Nations.
She specializes in the field of women, peace and security and its application in government, security forces and multilateral organizations.
O’Neill advised the Canadian government on the country’s first and second national action plans on women, peace and security.
O’Neill has spported women leaders across the globe and has advocated for women’s meaningful inclusion in peace negotiations, national political conversations and in policy.
“When women’s voices are taken seriously and when their rights are respected, entire communities benefit – agreements to end war are more likely to be reached, peace is more likely to endure, and militaries, police, and peacekeepers are more effective in their missions,” O’Neill said.
“The idea that women are not only victims of violent conflict, but also key agents of change, is taking root around the world. It is increasingly important to our allies – and to our adversaries.”
