In addition, via the recent G-7 Cologne Agreement, the U.S. will provide debt relief to help free funds for some developing nations that they can use to deliver expanded social services to their citizens. The U.S. private sector has increased its support as well. Since Cairo, U.S. foundations have more than tripled their assistance to population and related programs. An outstanding increase. As a result of these and other efforts, millions of families are able to achieve their reproductive goals and have healthier children.
More women are able to advance economically, socially and politically.
And reduced population pressures permit countries to invest more resources in education, health, the environment and other areas that contribute to an improved quality of life. The U.S. Commitment to Future Challenges Challenges remain, however. The U.S. has identified priorities to ensure that the Cairo goals become a reality, both at home and abroad. The Empowerment of Women and Girls Women's empowerment is a cornerstone of Cairo. The population and development challenge will not be solved until women are afforded equal opportunity to education, jobs, health care, legal rights and political participation.