#HerStories Vol. 2 from the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network
Listen to the new podcast series from the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network (MWMN), an initiative launched by Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and WIIS Italy.
Women continue to play a vital role in peacebuilding, mediation and conflict prevention, yet their experiences, expertise and achievements often remain underrepresented in public discourse. Building on the success of its first season, #HerStories returns with a second edition dedicated to amplifying the voices of women peacebuilders from across the Mediterranean region and beyond.
Hosted by Magda Zenon, Cypriot member of the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network (MWMN), this podcast series features conversations recorded throughout 2025 with women mediators, peacebuilders and experts working at the forefront of dialogue, conflict resolution and inclusive peace processes.
Through personal stories, professional reflections and lessons learned from the field, each episode explores the challenges, opportunities and impact of women’s leadership in peacebuilding. By sharing these experiences, #HerStories seeks to foster greater awareness of the Women, Peace and Security agenda and to highlight the indispensable contribution of women to building more peaceful, inclusive and resilient societies.
TRAILER: #HerStories from the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network
Listen to the episodes
Vol. 2 – Episode 1: Lucy Talgieh – Mediation, trauma and everyday realities of peacebuilding in Palestine
In the first episode of the new podcast series #HerStories2, Lucy Talgieh shares her experience as a mediator in Palestine and Deputy Mayor of Bethlehem. Drawing on her work in a highly complex and protracted context, Lucy reflects on the realities of living and working in the West Bank, and how these conditions shape both conflict dynamics and peacebuilding efforts.
She underscores that mediation cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all approach, but must be carefully adapted to each context, combining different practices in dialogue and negotiation. From grassroots engagement with communities and women, to addressing the impact of trauma and structural constraints, Lucy offers a grounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities of fostering inclusive and sustainable peace.
She reflects on the role of women mediators in conflict prevention and resolution, and shares her perspective on the importance of inclusive peace processes, cross-border cooperation and strengthening women’s participation in decision-making spaces.
Vol. 2 – Episode 3: Lea Baroudi – Emotions, trust and transforming conflict
In the third episode of the #HerStories2 podcast series, Lea Baroudi shares insights from her work as a mediator, psychologist and founder of the Lebanese NGO March. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in sectarian conflict resolution and deradicalisation in northern Lebanon, she reflects on the human dimensions of mediation and the role emotions play in shaping conflict and peacebuilding.
She discusses her work bringing together young fighters from opposing communities through a theatre initiative that evolved into a long-term reintegration programme, challenging traditional approaches to conflict resolution by placing trust, empathy and human connection at the centre of the mediation process. Reflecting on her professional journey, Lea also explores the importance of listening without judgement, creating safe spaces for dialogue and approaching conflict with curiosity rather than assumptions.
She further reflects on the role of women in mediation, explaining how navigating male-dominated environments has shaped her practice and highlighting the distinctive contribution women can make in building trust, fostering dialogue and supporting more inclusive and sustainable peace processes.
Vol. 2 – Episode 2: Pnina Sharvit Baruch – Women’s leadership, negotiation and inclusive peace processes
In the second episode of the #HerStories2 podcast series, Pnina Sharvit Baruch shares insights from her experience as a mediator, researcher and expert in international law and security affairs. Drawing on her involvement in peace negotiations and mediation initiatives, she reflects on the complexities of dialogue and conflict resolution in highly contested environments.
She discusses the challenges of navigating traditionally male-dominated negotiation and security spaces, highlighting the importance of ensuring women’s meaningful participation in peace and security processes. Reflecting on her own professional journey, Pnina also explores the value of building alliances among women and strengthening their role in decision-making.
She further reflects on the human dimension of conflict and mediation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue and fostering trust in times of deep polarization, while sharing her perspective on the role of women mediators in peacebuilding, conflict resolution and inclusive peace processes.
Vol. 2 – Episode 4: Odeta Barbullushi – Women, security and European integration
In the fourth episode of the #HerStories2 podcast series, Odeta Barbullushi, foreign policy expert, former Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania and former Sherpa to the Albanian Prime Minister, reflects on the evolving relationship between the European Union and the Western Balkans. Drawing on her experience in diplomacy and regional cooperation, she explores how security is reshaping the EU enlargement process and the region’s place within Europe.
She discusses Albania’s contribution to European security and regional cooperation, reflecting on the country’s role in addressing shared challenges. Looking beyond geopolitics, Odeta also highlights the importance of resilient institutions, regional partnerships and a broader understanding of security.
She further reflects on the role of women in diplomacy and negotiation, highlighting the value of bringing a gender perspective into decision-making. Drawing on her experience at the negotiating table, she explains how considering the impact of agreements on individuals and communities can lead to more inclusive and effective diplomacy.
