In the fight for global gender equality, women’s economic empowerment and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are intrinsically linked. This year, for instance, the Biden-Harris administration launched the U.S. Strategy on Global Women’s Economic Security. The interagency strategy is the first of its kind, and it lays out a vision in which women and girls around the world, in all their diversity, are able to fully, meaningfully, and equally contribute to, and benefit from, economic growth and global prosperity.

The Biden-Harris Administration marked a significant milestone earlier this year by hosting the second Summit for Democracy—which highlighted steadfast commitments to advancing women’s political and civic engagement. Global efforts towards achieving gender equality have not prevented the continuing worldwide underrepresentation of women in political decision-making—hindering progress towards empowerment and equal participation.

It is well established that women’s and girls’ lives are disproportionately affected by humanitarian emergencies—and that these crises often underscore pre-existing discriminatory practices. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), women and children account for more than 75 percent of those at risk from war, famine, persecution, and natural disaster. During these emergencies (and in their aftermath), women and girls are exposed to greater threats, such as the loss of livelihoods, education, and security due to displacement and the breakdown of social order.

The importance of quality education for girls cannot be understated. And when global thought leaders, policymakers, gender advocates, and researchers convened in Rwanda in July at the Women Deliver 2023 Conference, it was a chance to discuss a topic increasingly at the forefront of global conversation: How can quality education advance gender equality and empowerment worldwide?