Purplewashing: Reality vs. Perception of Gender Equality in Czech Diplomacy

This thesis examines the discrepancy between the communication and actions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic (MFA CR) regarding gender equality (with a particular focus on the status of women) in Czech diplomacy. The aim is to determine whether and how the MFA CR communicates this issue and what actions it undertakes to promote gender equality, both internationally and internally. This thesis contributes to the field by being the first research in the Czech context to explicitly focus on analyzing the MFA CR's communication on gender equality and comparing it to its implemented measures. The theoretical framework explains key concepts and topics such as gender and the status of women in diplomacy, purplewashing, inaction in public policy and political communication. Analysis of official documents, ministerial speeches, social media communication, and interviews with female diplomats reveals a discrepancy between declared intentions and actual actions of the MFA CR. Even unintentional purplewashing can undermine the MFA's credibility and hinder real progress towards equal opportunities for women in diplomacy. Therefore, the thesis emphasizes the urgent need for more transparent communication and a more consistent implementation of measures to achieve genuine gender equality. Women in diplomacy can enhance the work environment, bring fresh perspectives, and strengthen the ministry's competencies.