It also happens that these important principles are also reflected in the work of many programs of the Arias Foundation for Peace and Human Progress. Poverty and hunger are not accidents. The powerlessness experienced by world's poor has been used throughout history by the elite and powerful in order to keep the poor in their place. It it only by putting resources and decision making power into the hands of people that true justice can be achieved. Stronger local democracy is essential for getting food to the hungry, but also much more.
Local democracy is the means of enabling societies and consolidating democracy at all levels.
No society can rise higher than its poorest citizens. In light of the importance of local democracy and community organizing in development work, we must be especially committed to the full participation of women in these processes. It is not a coincidence that countries with the highest levels of human development also come the closest to offering equal opportunities and gender equity in their societies In most developing countries, women carry nearly the entire burden of the work needed for ending hunger. Yet, throughout their lives, they receive less education and training, less health, less nutrition, and are denied the freedom of movement. If we want to advance the health, education and livelihood of our poorest communities, and eventually want to end hunger, we will never succeed by leaving half of our community out of process.