For the poor, basic services remain the key to survival; and in Lima's busy streets, no one has done more to help them than the women's police unit founded by activist Silvia Loli.
On this International Women's Day, I am optimistic about the future for women and girls. One reason is that no matter where I go, I see them demanding information and opportunities that are key to improving the lives of their families.
Resources, leadership and long-term commitments are necessary to close persistent gender gaps and improve the rights and well-being of millions of girls around the world.
If at 12, a girl has an opportunity to go to school, access to a doctor, doesn't get married at 14, and stays in school, at 18 she can use her education to earn a living. Now she is calling the shots.