In a world that reached 7 billion inhabitants in October 2011, poverty affects us all; it is not only of concern to its immediate victims but also breeds many forms of violence, insecurity and environmental damage everywhere in the world. The fight against poverty, in particular extreme poverty in least developed countries, is therefore in the interest of everyone, rich or poor.
At the United Nations Millennium Summit in September 2000, 189 states agreed to achieve 8 objectives, called the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), by 2015. Each of these objectives includes a number of specific targets and indicators to fight against the manifold scourges caused by poverty.Everywhere in the world, girls and women bear the brunt of poverty. In spite of their manifold and heavy responsibilities within their families and communities, they are very often denied the most basic social and economic rights, such as the rights to health, education, employment and ownership. Poverty reduction experts worldwide, such as Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs, internationally renowned economist, are unanimous in asserting that women's empowerment is one of the main driving forces leading to poverty reduction and economic growth.
The instruments facilitating women's empowerment are manifold and interdependent; they include access to primary and reproductive health care, family planning, education, training, income generating activities, gender equality, and the recognition of women's fundamental rights. In parallel, women's empowerment brings about direct benefits for their families and society as a whole. Women who are educated, in good health and empowered to claim their rights, are able to fully participate in the social and economic life of their communities. Promoting women's health, education and rights enhances their well-being and productivity, thus improving the future perspectives of generations to come.
To see where you stand in a world of 7 billion people, click on the following link: 7 Billion and Me
For further reading:
- Development as Freedom
Amartya Sen (1998 Nobel Prize in Economics), 1999 - The End of Poverty
Jeffrey D. Sachs, 2005