Map: What Countries Have The Worst Gender Gaps?

In Half the Sky, a documentary series and book, journalists Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn offers a compelling narrative of women’s suffering. They shine their spotlight on the value of empowering women economically,and make the case that access to opportunities for income and wealth creation, investment, and entrepreneurship are critical boosters of female power. But they are missing a critical solution that would allow women to take control of their own futures, and break the cycle of poverty and subjugation. While giving grown women access to assets and finance is valuable, it’s often too late. Mounting research shows that breaking the cycle of poverty—and creating lasting economic empowerment—requires starting young. And new technology enables us to do just that. On this first-ever International Day of the Girl, we offer a simple yet powerful solution: Let girls save money for their futures.

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