Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States Audrey Marks emphasized the fundamental role of women in creating a safer and healthier world and underscored the urgent need for women’s economic empowerment during her recent address at the International Women’s Conference hosted by Nevalliance at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York.
“Investing in women is not just a moral imperative but a strategic global necessity,” Marks stated, highlighting data from UN Women that revealed the significant economic benefits of gender equality.
She noted that developing countries require an additional $360 billion per year to achieve gender impartiality under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and closing gender gaps in employment could boost GDP per capita by 20 percent.
Warning of insufficient investment
Despite the transparent advantages of investing in women, Marks lamented about how insufficient investment in females is currently, warning that without immediate action, over 340 million women and girls would still live in extreme poverty by 2030.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” framed the context for Marks’ address, which served as a rallying cry for societal change, where she urged attendees to recognize women’s essential role in addressing global challenges such as geopolitical conflicts, poverty, and climate change.
Women as key drivers of growth
Ambassador Audrey Marks also pointed out that women are undeniably pivotal in propelling economic growth worldwide.
“As half of the world’s population, women are not just participants but key drivers of economic growth and societal contributions,” she said, highlighting the diverse roles women play across various fields.
Calling on women to become active participants in the fight for gender equality, championing the conference’s theme of “leading ladies,” she emphasized the importance of role modeling and urged women to lead by example, showcasing the strength and capability inherent in female leadership.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Marks shared lessons on embracing innovation, building relationships, and upholding integrity, illustrating the impact of individual leadership in challenging the status quo.
In her closing remarks, Ambassador Marks reiterated the imperative for action, envisioning a future where women’s empowerment is recognized as central to creating a more equitable, just, and prosperous global society.
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