The many activities of Soroptimists worldwide continue to be exciting and productive. I am proud to read of the many achievements of Soroptimists (as individuals and clubs) in advancing human rights and the status of women. Your enthusiasm and energy really do result in a better world for women and girls.

I’d like to share with you the importance of our programme focus goal in the area of economic and social development.: Women will live and work in safe and equitable environments with equal opportunities for advancement.

Of the world’s 6 billion people, 2.8 billion live in absolute poverty defined as living on less than $1 a day (World Bank, World Development Report 2003: Sustainable Development in Dynamic World). There is extensive evidence that persistent gender inequities exist. Women often have limited access to resources including capital (i.e. credit and land), insufficient market knowledge, lack of skills and technologies, thus constraining their ability to participate in economic growth. Legal rights and protections providing women the same rights and protections offered to men must have the support of local cultural and legal systems and be incorporated into human rights legislation and economic governance structures.

Fifty percent (50%) of the 6 billion population is under 25, 2.5 billion live in the south and 2 billion live in cities. “The largest cohort of youth the world has ever known is heading into reproductive ages” (USAID Report: Women, Men and Development).

This tremendous growth in the number of young and old comes at a time when the productive age population is shrinking – particularly in countries impacted by HIV/AIDS. Who will support widows when property laws do not ensure them ownership of the land for which they have worked a lifetime? Progress in the areas of legal reforms and rights, economic opportunities and women’s participation in politics and government are further deferred by such challenges as HIV/AIDS, continual internal, regional and national conflicts, trafficking and rapidly moving globalization.

Soroptimists are taking action and will continue to bring about change through awareness, advocacy and action. I urge each club to review the objectives adopted by SI under this goal: develop programmes and partnerships to eradicate the extreme poverty and hunger of women and girls; improve societal and workplace conditions to enable women to achieve their potential; increase women’s involvement in management and decision-making. How did your club do in meeting these objectives? How would you grade yourselves? I’ve learned of many outstanding projects and educational programs which have been carried out. Please celebrate these accomplishments in your club, your area/region/union and your Federation. You are truly making a difference in this world.

Joan Conner, President
Soroptimist International