Women Are a Powerful Force for Development

Businesses today focus heavily on productivity, maximizing potential, tapping every last resource. Yet the global economy still underutilizes a staggering 48.4 percent of its available productive potential: women. IFC recognizes that creating opportunity for women in the private sector is essential for economic growth.

Change cannot come soon enough for women in developing countries, who often face economic exclusion and legal discrimination. But it is equally critical for economies seeking to grow. IFC has worked across many developing countries to strengthen women’s education, rights, health, and access to the workforce. This is not just a moral imperative. It’s also good economics.

See full Press Release: http://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/corp_ext_content/ifc_external_corporate_site/ifc+news/news/privatesectorsolutionsgfordevelopment/featurestory_win