Why is the Because i am a girl initiative important?

Around the world, girls continue to face unique barriers that violate their rights and keep them from reaching their full potential. Discrimination leads to grave injustices like gender-based violence, limited or no educational opportunities, child marriage and early pregnancy.

Plan International is standing with girls and young women by providing a platform, opportunities and support for them to become leaders and make change happen. Once girls are aware of their rights and have an improved social position, they can successfully advocate for change in their lives, in their community, or around the world. We have seen girls at the forefront of movements to end FGM in their community or ban child marriage in their country.

Equality will not be a reality until the world recognizes the inherent power and potential of youth – especially girls. Our focus on girls does not mean that we exclude boys from our work, in fact we actively engage men and boys in our efforts to advance equality.

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