US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the strategy focuses on breaking down some of the barriers that stand in the way of women for full economic participation.

Before the launch, Blinken said the strategy was discussed in 12 US government departments and agencies plus the consultation with stakeholders from more than 30 countries.

He cited data from the World Bank as saying that women have equal legal economic standing with men in 12 countries around the world including through equal pay and legal protection in the workplace.

Thus the US government encourages countries to repeal discriminatory laws and advocate for reform that promotes gender equality.

Other priorities include supporting access and funding for childcare and old people care, and promoting training and mentoring programs to advance women’s economic competitiveness so that more women can fully participate and lead in all sectors, in all industries – including as CEOs and board members.

Lifting barriers for women to enter the workforce could benefit 2.4 billion working-age women worldwide.