Introducing IOM International Women's Day campaign: "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress for Gender Equality and Safe Migration."

On this special occasion, we're thrilled to spotlight three remarkable women: Tamara Srzentić, Andrijana Paljušević, and Mary Nikezić. Originating from Montenegro, these impressive women are not just leaders in their respective fields, but they're also catalysts for change and champions of gender equality. Through their work, they inspire our society and demonstrate the power of determination, resilience, and innovation. As we celebrate their achievements, let's join hands in supporting women change makers among the diaspora, empowering women, and fostering a more inclusive world for all.

Dive deeper into Andrijana's inspiring story and insights in her full interview. 

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1. Can you share your journey from Montenegro to pursuing a PhD in Italy? What motivated you to choose this field of study?

I have always been interested in global affairs, but mostly in building bridges between different cultures, nations, religions, and races. Hence, the choice of international relations as my field of study did not come as a surprise to people who have known me. In 2017, I commenced my Bachelor in Political Science and International Relations at the University of Montenegro and spent two semesters in the United States and Germany. In 2020, I pursued a two-year master’s programme in Austria, where I became increasingly interested in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs]. After writing my master’s thesis on two specific SDGs, I decided to advance my academic interest in the topic through a PhD programme. In 2023, I began my doctorate in Global Studies in Italy, working on Open Innovation Based on People and Community Needs. My PhD trajectory embodies a juncture of an in-depth exploration of Sustainable Development Goals and my dedication to contribute to a profound dialogue between people and institutions and the elevation of local communities.

2. As a member of the Steering Committee at Organization of Montenegrins Studying Abroad (OMSA), could you tell us about the initiatives or projects you're involved in to support Montenegrins studying abroad?

I have been a part of OMSA in various capacities since 2020. The organisation has provided me with a platform to put to good use my research, writing, and communication skills. I am an author and co-author of publications regarding the population of Montenegrin students abroad and the overview of studies in dozens of countries. As a local coordinator in Austria for two years, I had the opportunity to help Montenegrin students interested in the Austrian educational system, scholarships, accommodation, etc. I have also partaken in organising meetings and fairs for high school students in Montenegro to familiarise them with the academic opportunities abroad. All the way through, OMSA has bestowed me a chance to meet and collaborate with many intelligent, hard-working, and talented young people from Montenegro who—in their unique ways—continuously brace our country’s progress. 

3. Your research focuses on open innovation based on people and community needs. How do you see this concept contributing to gender equality and safe migration, particularly for women?

Through the lenses of my PhD thesis, open innovation based on people and community needs means that public administrations and local authorities should strive to deliver to citizens new participatory strategies and platforms for community co-creation. To achieve that vision, marginalised groups—including women, migrants, and refugees—need to have an equal say in the decision- and policy-making processes. By becoming active participants in idea-generating activities under the institutional aegis, the overlooked groups of people could reap fruits from innovative processes. Having the citizens’ voices heard, acknowledged, and fulfilled creates the pathway to more sustainable, resilient, and just communities.

4. How can academia play a role in accelerating progress for gender equality, especially concerning the migration experiences of women?

One of the ways to contribute to the accelerating progress for gender equality is to have academia involved in multi-stakeholder dialogues. Compelling and rigorous research, multi-disciplinary conversations and ventures with colleagues and students, and novel ideas deriving thereof are some of the most precious instruments in academia’s toolbox. As much of the academic opus with valuable insights and policy guidelines remains overlooked, it is essential to engage experts from the academic world in developing strategies of importance to society. Responsible and reliable governance, which guarantees gender equality on various fronts, encompasses not only the bureaucracy but also the academia, citizens, the private sector, civil society, multilateral organisations, and other actors.

5. As someone who has excelled academically in multiple countries, what advice would you give to young women from Montenegro or other countries who aspire to pursue higher education or academic careers abroad?

To all the girls and women who stay up late at night dreaming with their eyes wide open about immersing themselves in another country’s culture, way of life, landscapes, or (sunny) weather: The sky is not the limit; it is only the beginning. While living abroad, you break away from what you think you know about yourself and the world around you. With each new day, you put together the pieces of wonders within and around you.

6. In your opinion, what are some effective ways individuals, communities, governments and diaspora can invest in women to accelerate progress towards gender equality and ensure safer migration experiences?

For me, progress lies in the hands of the smallest cells of our society - the individual and the family. By setting an example more through concrete actions and less by merely preaching, an individual can set the standard of appropriate behaviour and respectful treatment of women in our society. Continuously investing in our knowledge and deepening our kindness, compassion, and understanding opens the horizons for a more inclusive and accepting society that leaves no one behind.

While many wish to have a magic wand to change certain deviations in our surroundings, a more effective and, frankly, realistic way is to let our acts convey our noble visions while hoping we will positively influence others in our surroundings through the butterfly effect. No matter how small and fragile they are, butterflies do cause mesmerising typhons, fascinating re-imaginations, and profound transformations.

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For more information, please contact Edina Osmanović, tel: +382 68 865 005, email: eosmanovic@iom.int