The European Development Days will take place in Brussels on 5-6 June. Women and girls are at the heart of this year’s event, shining a light on the key role they play in promoting and contributing to sustainable development.
I am delighted about this, as I feel very strongly about both gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
Women and girls are a formidable force and have the social and economic potential to contribute effectively to realising the Sustainable Development Goals.
To achieve this, it is crucial to assist governments, parliaments, civil society - including NGOs - and the private sector in supporting the different initiatives aimed at protecting women and girls and assist them economically, socially and politically.
Girls are life-bearers and the question of their education is fundamental. They represent the future and must be given all the tools they need to help their countries find their place in the global economy. Investing in their education means investing in the future.