It is essential that we not forget those most affected by conflict. A commitm...

It is essential that we not forget those most affected by conflict. A commitment to peace requires a commitment to the protection and empowerment of all members of a society, especially women and girls. A society's development is inextricably tied to the engagement and leadership of women. Peace cannot exist when the rights of half of the population are compromised. Peace cannot exist when the rights of women are compromised. Given access to resources, tools and opportunities, women are drivers of post-conflict reconciliation and recovery; when not, they are the greatest victims. A commitment to freedom and dignity requires the empowerment of all citizens. It is only by strengthening the rights of women that a country will achieve greater security and, in turn, greater prosperity.