Advancing Women in Law Enforcement: Departments of Justice and State Host Historic Regional Symposium in Asia

 The U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of State collaborated to host a groundbreaking Asia-Pacific Regional Symposium on Women in Law Enforcement and Security in Denpasar, Indonesia. Recognizing the vital role of women in combating organized crime, terrorism, and violent extremism, the symposium aimed to enhance women's participation in law enforcement, fostering operational effectiveness and community engagement. Approximately 70 law enforcement professionals from eight nations attended, representing Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Nepal, Philippines, and Sri Lanka. The event provided a platform for career development training, networking, and the advancement of women in law enforcement. The symposium featured notable speakers and discussions on leadership, change management, emotional intelligence, global terrorism trends, and countering violent extremism. The symposium also emphasized the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in law enforcement and aimed to promote a diverse force capable of effectively addressing communal needs and preventing radicalism. The event was organized by the U.S. Department of Justice's ICITAP and its EMPoWER program, along with the Department of State's Bureau of Counterterrorism (CT) and Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).