On October 25th, Delegates participating in the G(irls)20 Summit in Paris presented French President Nicholas Sarkozy with a communiqué featuring recommendations on how G20 leaders can help reduce gender inequality and recognise the pivotal role women and girls play in advancing the global economy. Drafted by 21 young delegates -- all women under the age of 20 -- the communiqué features more than 30 specific recommendations on gender-based violence and inequality; education, training, and employment; political, economic, and social representation; and health; designed to influence global leaders convening at the G20 meetings in Cannes, France next month.
Noting that healthier populations mean stronger workforces and higher productivity, the delegates urge global leaders to invest in safe, clean, and accessible facilities -- and mobile health centres while clinical infrastructure is being developed -- that provide sexual health education and access to family planning. They also recommend that more community-based health workers and medical professionals are trained to help address maternal health issues. In addition, they advocate for leaders to push for the end of the female genital mutilation, virginity testing, and other actions that “violate female bodily integrity,” as well as the practice of son preference.
Launched in 2010, the G(irls)20 Summit brings together one delegate from each G20 country and a representative from the chair country of the African Union to collaborate on innovative ideas on empowering girls and women.
Read more about this article
