In the poorest countries, gender inequities acutely limit opportunities for girls and women. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls are among the most effective ways to combat poverty, hunger, and disease and to stimulate development that is truly sustainable. 

IDA, the World Bank's Fund for the Poorest, has been working to expand girls' access to education and to create other opportunities for empowerment. As the largest source of concessional finance for low-income countries, IDA plays a critical role in investing in women's health and education and ensuring their equal access to economic opportunities. IDA is having a tangible impact on the ground in developing countries. Published on Oct 31, 2012