Melinda Gates : International Women 's Day started small a century ago . She says there 's now global awareness of vital role of women in society , economy . When women can direct family budget , health care and education for their children, they are more likely to have better lives than men who don't work outside the home. The work of making sure that women and girls everywhere can seize their potential is about making specific changes that will set into motion these longer term outcomes . Gates : Empowered women are a source of progress , want to take action .
Melinda Gates : International Women 's Day started small a century ago . She says there 's now global awareness of vital role of women in society , economy . When women can direct family budget , health care and education for their children, they are more likely to have better lives than men who don't work outside the home. Gates : Empowered women are a source of progress , want to take action .