Meaning: The quote "The Platform for Action gives due emphasis to the fact that women globally have continued to have insufficient access to the resources necessary to achieve economic independence" by Jenny Shipley, a prominent stateswoman, highlights a critical issue that has persisted for generations. This quote is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the barriers that women face in accessing the resources needed to achieve economic empowerment.

The Platform for Action refers to the document created during the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995. This conference was a landmark event that brought together representatives from 189 countries to address gender inequality and women's rights on a global scale. The Platform for Action outlined a comprehensive set of strategic objectives and actions for achieving gender equality in 12 critical areas, including women and the economy.

One of the key themes emphasized in the Platform for Action is the economic empowerment of women. It acknowledges the systemic barriers and inequalities that prevent women from accessing the resources necessary to achieve economic independence. This includes factors such as discriminatory laws and practices, limited access to education and training, unequal pay, and lack of access to financial services and resources.

The quote by Jenny Shipley underscores the persistent and pervasive nature of these challenges. Despite progress in some areas, women around the world continue to face significant obstacles in their pursuit of economic independence. This lack of access to resources not only hinders individual women's economic empowerment but also has broader implications for the overall well-being and prosperity of societies.

The economic empowerment of women is crucial for achieving sustainable development and reducing poverty. When women have equal access to resources, they can contribute significantly to economic growth, poverty reduction, and the overall well-being of their families and communities. Empowering women economically also has a multiplier effect, as it leads to improved health and education outcomes for future generations.

In order to address the issues highlighted in the quote, concerted efforts are needed at the local, national, and global levels. This includes implementing policies and legal reforms that promote gender equality and women's economic empowerment, investing in education and skills training for women, ensuring equal pay for equal work, and expanding access to financial services and resources for women entrepreneurs and business owners.

Furthermore, it is essential to challenge societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender inequality and limit women's opportunities for economic advancement. This involves promoting cultural and social change to break down stereotypes and biases that restrict women's access to resources and economic opportunities.

International organizations, governments, civil society, and the private sector all have a role to play in addressing the issues raised in the quote. Collaboration and partnerships are essential to drive progress and create an enabling environment for women to achieve economic independence.

In conclusion, Jenny Shipley's quote from the Platform for Action serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges women face in accessing the resources necessary for economic independence. It calls for sustained efforts to address these barriers and advance gender equality in the economic sphere. By prioritizing women's economic empowerment, societies can unlock the full potential of women as drivers of sustainable development and prosperity.