Today here in Denmark, we kick-off the celebrations of the new global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It is a great pleasure for me to be part of this kick-off and a great joy to see so many gathered here. We are also present here today, for another important reason – and that is, to develop the mobilization efforts for Denmark, as host of the Women Deliver conference next year in May. 

It is with a great sense of honor that I will raise the first flag of the Global Goals campaign. By raising the flag representing Goal Number 5 – the achievement of Gender Equality and the empowerment of all women and girls – we are celebrating its’ rightful place, in the heart of the highest international agenda.

Realization of Goal 5 will make a crucial contribution to progress across all goals and targets because; sustainable development cannot be obtained if half of humanity is denied its full human rights and opportunities. 

The ambition of the Global Goals Campaign is to tell everyone about the goals. If they are known and understood, they will most likely not be forgotten. To help make the goals well-known, 17 flags representing the 17 goals will be distributed to some of the highest, lowest, most remote and iconic places around the world; from the bottom of the ocean to the North Pole. And the campaign begins today, here in Denmark with our commitment to Gender Equality and the achievement of Goal 5. 

Gender equality is a fundamental human right and fundamental for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. Together we can end all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls. Women and girls must enjoy equal access to quality education, health services and information, economic resources, and political participation, as well as equal opportunities for employment, leadership and decision-making at all levels. 

Raising the flag for Gender Equality on Danish ground is very fitting. Denmark has been tireless in its commitment to improving the lives of women and girls all around the world and is seen as a leader with a strong global voice on these issues. And fitting because in May 2016, thousands of world influencers, advocates, activists, researchers, policymakers, young people, journalists, private sector leaders, and members of civil society will gather in Copenhagen at the Women Deliver conference, to share ideas and strategize on how to make the world a better place for girls and women (which in reality means a better world – for all). As one of the first large international conference after the United Nations’ adoption of the new 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Women Deliver in Denmark also provides the perfect platform to accelerate effective implementation of that Agenda. 

Together, let us make this ambitious Agenda the one that transforms our world.

Thank you.