U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris announce a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering women’s advancement in crucial sectors such as clean energy, fisheries, and environmental conservation on a global scale, according to a statement from the White House.
Under the banner of the Women in the Sustainable Economy Initiative (WISE), Harris will reveal approximately $900 million in pledges from governments, corporations, and civil society organizations. The announcement will coincide with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit hosted by the United States in San Francisco.
As Harris gears up for potential re-election alongside President Joe Biden in 2024, she is placing emphasis on issues crucial to women, particularly in the lead-up to a presidential election where voters’ concerns about abortion rights are likely to play a significant role.
Within the Biden administration, Harris has been a prominent advocate for women’s abortion rights, especially following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade, a landmark case that had previously solidified those rights.
The White House disclosed that countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, and Mexico, along with major corporations like Amazon, Citi, and PepsiCo, have committed millions of dollars to initiatives supporting women in gaining jobs, training, and funding within environmentally friendly sectors.
For instance, Canada has pledged $12.52 million through 2025 for projects supporting enterprises owned and led by women in Ghana. Amazon has committed to investing $50 million in “climate tech” companies led by women.
In a statement, the White House highlighted the interconnected nature of women’s economic opportunities with their ability to control, access, and utilize land, energy, and water. By supporting women’s roles and leadership in sectors critical to the planet’s future, the initiative aims to promote women’s economic security while advancing efforts to address the root causes and effects of climate change, ultimately bolstering global economic prosperity.
