United Nations Radio

Thursday, on the occasion of International Day of Rural Women UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for putting the rights, needs and aspirations of rural women much higher on the global agenda.

International Day of Rural Women

Mr. Ban said today many rural women still face severe deprivation in enjoying their rights. Farhan Haq is the UN Chief's Associate Spokesperson.

"The Secretary-General calls for increased investments in the resources, infrastructure and services which would ease rural women's workloads and release their time and energy for engagement in the labour market and public life."

The International Day of Rural Women has been observed since 2007 and serves to highlight the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.

Gail Walker, United Nations Radio
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