October 11, 2012
As the world celebrates the first International Day of the Girl, the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) proudly restates its commitment to the rights of girls everywhere.
Much progress has been made to advance the well-being of girls. More girls are enrolled in primary school than ever before. From human rights advocates to athletes, from community organizers to mentors, girls are contributing to the well-being of their families, communities and countries. Girls are leaders in their own right.
Despite progress, girls are often discriminated against because of their age and gender. Many girls are denied access to a quality education and basic health services, and are more vulnerable to malnutrition, early marriage, and other forms of gender-based violence.
This must change.
With more years of schooling, girls are more able to improve their economic prospects and more likely to have fewer and healthier children. Supporting girls' empowerment is critical to eliminating poverty and creating a brighter and safer future for everyone.
Girls' rights are human rights. On the International Day of the Girl, we recognize girls everywhere for their courage in difficult circumstances, and commit to supporting girls in the realization of their full human rights.
Recently, the cowardly and senseless act of violence against a 14-year-old Pakistani girl for speaking out against the Taliban and in favour of girls' fundamental right to an education proves the importance of Canada's continued focus on girls.
For more information on the International Day of the Girl, visit CIDA's Empowering Girls web page or the Status of Women Canadawebsite.
Julian Fantino
Minister of International Cooperation
