Gender equality is a fundamental human right. Despite international commitments, women and girls continue to have fewer economic opportunities than men, less access to education, less political representation, and increased health risks especially related to reproductive health. Not only is gender equality a fundamental human right, it is necessary for a prosperous and thriving world. 

 

Empowered women and girls contribute to the health and productivity of their families and communities, resulting in resounding benefits for the international community. Safeguarding the human rights of women and girls not only provides half the world with the opportunities to reach their own full potential, but also aids the world in achieving a multitude of international development goals.

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At the 1789 Fund, we are committed to making the world a safer place for mothers and newborns. We believe that in order to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, it is essential to simultaneously focus on poverty and gender inequality and its direct effect on health outcomes. We are investing in women and girls through supporting women's cooperatives and initiating health system capacity-building programs in developing nations.  We firmly believe gender inequality and women’s socioeconomic status significantly impact the overall health of women and their families. 

 

In addition to our 2AFTER42 Initiative, the 1789 Fund partners directly with local women’s cooperatives in Nepal to support the economic empowerment of local women. We believe that this will help bridge the gap between gender inequity and health outcomes. Upon successful program implementation in Nepal, the 1789 Fund will work to create similar health capacity-building and economic empowerment programs in other developing nations.