Photo by Julien Harneis

Tuesday, 8 March 2011 is International Women’s Day.  In his speech to celebrate the centenary celebration, the UN Secretary-General called for girls worldwide to have equal access to education. In many developing countries girls are often prevented from attending school because of the need to walk long distances to fetch water.  Other factors contributing to absenteeism from school include inadequate toilet and sanitation facilities – in particular for menstruating girls.

Commemorating International Women’s Day, HE, Mr Ban Ki-moon also highlighted the need for improvements in women’s and children’s health.  To read the UN Secretary-General’s speech in full, please visit: http://tinyurl.com/4eufqde