Meaning: This quote by Barber Conable, Jr. succinctly captures the stark reality of gender inequality and the economic disparity faced by women worldwide. The statistics presented in the quote highlight the significant disparity in income and property ownership between men and women, drawing attention to the disproportionate burden shouldered by women in terms of labor and economic reward.

The first part of the quote, "Women do two thirds of the world's work," sheds light on the substantial contribution of women to the global workforce. Women are deeply involved in various forms of work, including agricultural labor, household chores, caregiving, and informal sector employment. Their contributions are essential for the functioning and well-being of societies and economies across the world. However, despite their significant labor participation, women face numerous barriers that limit their access to economic opportunities and fair compensation.

The second part of the quote, "Yet they earn only one tenth of the world's income and own less than one percent of the world's property," highlights the glaring economic disparity faced by women. This statistic underscores the systemic inequality in income distribution and property ownership, which perpetuates the cycle of poverty and marginalization for many women. It reflects the structural barriers that hinder women's economic empowerment, such as unequal pay, limited access to formal employment, and discriminatory inheritance and property rights laws.

The concluding statement, "They are among the poorest of the world's poor," emphasizes the disproportionate impact of economic inequality on women, particularly those in marginalized and vulnerable communities. Women, especially those in developing countries and rural areas, often bear the brunt of poverty, lacking access to essential resources, education, and healthcare. This perpetuates a cycle of intergenerational poverty, further exacerbating the economic and social challenges faced by women and their families.

Barber Conable, Jr.'s quote serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address gender inequality in economic spheres. It underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing women's labor, providing equal economic opportunities, and promoting policies that enhance women's access to property, income, and financial resources.

Efforts to address these disparities require multifaceted approaches, including legislative reforms to ensure equal pay for equal work, initiatives to promote women's entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, and strategies to enhance women's access to education and vocational training. Additionally, addressing cultural and social norms that perpetuate gender-based discrimination and promoting women's leadership and representation in decision-making processes are integral to advancing gender equality in the economic domain.

In conclusion, Barber Conable, Jr.'s quote powerfully encapsulates the pervasive economic disparities faced by women globally. It calls for concerted efforts to dismantle the structural barriers that impede women's economic empowerment and to create inclusive and equitable economic systems that recognize and value the contributions of women. The quote serves as a rallying cry to prioritize gender equality in economic development agendas and to work towards a more just and inclusive world for all.