Cuso International works in a number of areas that intersect with gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. In conjunction with women's rights organizations, various levels of state and federal governments, health departments and hospitals, and other NGOs, Cuso and its partners work to increase access to quality reproductive maternal and newborn health care; advocate for women's rights and gender-sensitive policies; increase women's participation in decision-making; and eradicate gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. Improve access to and quality of economic opportunities for young people Accounting for 16 per cent of the global population, young people between the ages of 15 to 24 are three times more likely to be unemployed than adults, and young women are twice as likely to be unemployed and without access to education or training as young men. Cuso International and its partner organizations work with youth populations to provide education, training, hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities. Engage volunteers to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals Volunteering is "at the heart" of Cuso International's global efforts to reduce poverty and inequality. Cuso volunteers are skilled professionals who work with community-based partners around the world to build skills and transfer knowledge, one of the most sustainable ways to address development needs. References External links Development charities based in Canada