Melinda Gates: Why equality can’t wait

We know that women are central to building a faster, more durable economic recovery. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen progress in areas like education, primary health care, nutrition, and child care stall out, forcing girls out of school, pushing women out of the workforce, and harming the ability of half the world’s population to contribute to global success. To reverse this slide, we need to redouble our commitment in these areas—for the sake of the women and girls in our communities and for the health of communities as a whole. 

The World Bank/International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings are a key moment for all of us to prioritize funding programs that will help ensure a sustainable recovery that puts women at the center. That’s why our foundation is asking decision-makers and other stakeholders—particularly the governments and global financial institutions that have already played a vital role in driving economic growth—to expand their support for these programs. 

When we gather virtually in June for the Generation Equality Forum, we will urge all participants to elevate these issues, empower women and girls, and use the opportunity to make real and enduring commitments for global success. 

Take a look. 

Published: Apr 8, 2021