Ban calls for more investment in women's education, health

New York, US (PANA) - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on business leaders attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to increase their investment in women’s education and health, to ensure their well-being and encourage their participation in the world economy.

"Investing in the education and health of women and girls is the right thing to do and the smart thing to do for national economies and global stability,” Ban said at an event organized by the Every Woman Every Child initiative Thursday.

The initiative is a global effort launched in 2010 to mobilize and intensify global action to save the lives of 16 million women and children and improve the lives of millions more.

“The business community can help. Your partnership is crucial in preventing unnecessary suffering for women and girls everywhere," he said. "Despite recent progress, much remains to be done."

The Secretary-General also stressed the need to boost maternal health efforts so that women everywhere can give birth safely.

"Last year, more than 300,000 women died giving birth. The vast majority of those deaths could have been prevented," Ban said.

He also stressed the need to provide education for girls so they can lead productive lives, contribute to the economy and start families when they decide to do so.

"The private sector is uniquely positioned to deliver a better life for women and children around the world. Telecommunication companies are harnessing their networks to bring mobile health solutions to women living in the countryside.

"Corporations are using their technological strengths to develop affordable healthcare equipment for remote areas.  Pharmaceutical companies are making essential drugs available to those most in need," Ban said.
-0- PANA AA/SEG 27Jan2012