Because I am a Girl
‘I am honoured to write for Plan’s ‘Because I am a Girl 2009’ Report. The report adds evidence on the importance of investing in girls in the developing world. But it is more than that: it is also a call for action, for each of us to do our part – those of us in governments, in NGOs, in international agencies and elsewhere, especially during this challenging economic climate. Investing in girls is undoubtedly the right thing to do. It is also the smart thing to do. We still have a long way to go to promote economic and social progress through empowering girls, and the goal is only achievable if we act now.’ Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Managing Director, World Bank
the State of the World’s Girls 2009
‘…women and girls (are) disproportionately affected by this current economic crisis. We need to ensure that the energy, skills, strength, values and wisdom of women become an integral part of the re-modelled economic infrastructures now being developed by global leaders. Empowering and investing in girls and young women is part of a global solution for us all, now and in the future.’ Graça Machel President of the Foundation for Community Development Chair of the GAVI Fund Board
plan-international.org 978-0-9550479-8-5
Football practice in El Salvador. p h otograp h : A L F B E R G
Because I am a Girl th e State o f th e Wo r ld ’ s G ir l s 20 0 9
Girls in the Global Economy: Adding It All Up