"No socioeconomic effort would have a more leveraged effect on improving the conditions of the world -- vis-a-vis famine, war, HIV/AIDS, infant mortality, etc. -- than one directed at giving women the power to control their lives."


"Hamed, 10/14/2005"

"As study after study has taught us, there is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women. No other policy is as likely to raise economic productivity or to reduce child and maternal mortality. No other policy is as sure to improve nutrition and promote health, including the prevention of HIV/AIDS. No other policy is as powerful in increasing the chances of education for the next generation."


"Kofi Annan, Reference 3 below, Page vi"


References:

1) BBC Article: "Women's health fuelling poverty" 10/12/2005

2) Reuters Article: "No economic growth without women's rights, UN says" 2/28/2006

3) UNICEF Report: "THE STATE OF THE WORLD'S CHILDREN 2007.pdf"