Economically empowering women is essential to realize women’s rights and to achieve broader development goals such as economic growth, poverty reduction, health, education and welfare. Yet disadvantages and discrimination faced by women and girls continue to severely limit their ability to lift themselves out of poverty.

In the Nordic countries, a variety of public policies and services enables women to participate actively in the economy and to have equal rights as men. The event will have lightning talks by five Ambassadors from Nordic countries to discuss the Nordic welfare state and a panel discussion to more generally explore the role that both the government and private sector can play in enabling women (and men) to achieve their full social, political and economic potential.

Remarks by

The Acting Ambassador of Denmark to the United States, Mr. Henrik Bramsen Hahn

The Ambassador of Finland to the United States, Ms. Kirsti Kauppi

The Ambassador of Iceland to the United States, Mr. Geir H. Haarde

The Ambassador of Norway to the United States, Mr. Kåre R. Aas

The Ambassador of Sweden to the United States, Ms. Karin Olofsdotter

Dean of Academic Affairs at American University, Professor Mary Clark

Discussion moderated by

Professor of Economics, American University, Dr. Maria Floro

With panelists

Director of Economic Empowerment and Livelihoods, Intl Center for Research on Women, Dr. Sarah Gammage

Associate Director, Women and the Law Program, American University Washington College of Law, Ms. Daniela Kraiem

Project Leader, The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Ms. Gitte Frederiksen

Senior Specialist, Migration and Labor Trafficking, Solidarity Center, Ms. Neha Misra

Gender Specialist, Peace Corps, Ms. Ashley Mills

FAQs

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Off-campus guests are encouraged to take public transportation. Guests requiring parking may park in the School of International Service parking garage and purchase parking at the pay station next to the elevator lobby. In accordance with AU's Good Neighbor Policy, parking in the surrounding neighborhood is prohibited. Directions and campus map are available.

Where is the Abramson Family Founders Room located within the School of International Service?

Located on the Terrace level of the School of International Service, the Abramson Family Founders Room is located to the right as you exit the elevators, and at the bottom of the grand staircase leading from the first floor.