The UN High-Level Panel on Global Sustainability in its final report has concluded that “empowering women and ensuring a greater role for them in the economy is critical for sustainable development,”
The UN High-Level Panel on Global Sustainability in its final report has concluded that “empowering women and ensuring a greater role for them in the economy is critical for sustainable development,” according to the Panel’s co-chair Finnish President Tarja Halonen.
The report, ‘Resilient People, Resilient Planet: A Future Worth Choosing’ was presented to UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon on 30 January 2012 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The 22-member Panel was established by the UN Secretary-General in August 2010 to formulate a blueprint for sustainable development and low-carbon prosperity. It was co-chaired by Finnish President Tarja Halonen and South African President Jacob Zuma.
President Halonen stressed the importance of placing people at the centre of achieving sustainable development. “Eradication of poverty and improving equity must remain priorities for the world community,” she said.
The report urges that now more than ever, leaders need to focus on what matters most – the long-term resilience of people and the planet. The report contains 56 recommendations to put sustainable development into practise and to mainstream it into economic policy as quickly as possible.
President of the Foundation and member of The Elders, Mary Robinson said: “Strengthening the participation of women at all levels of decision-making is crucial. A serious shift towards sustainable development requires gender equality and an end to persistent discrimination. The next major boost to global growth could well come from the full economic empowerment of women.”
Related:
The UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Global Sustainability
Bold action is needed to make sustainable development a reality – The Elders, 30 January 2012