One of the biggest development issues in the world is the education of girls. In the United States and Europe, it has been accepted, but not in Africa and the developing countries.

Harri Holkeri’s quote highlights the global issue of education for girls, emphasizing that it remains one of the most significant development challenges worldwide. He points out that while education for girls has been largely accepted and integrated into societies in the United States and Europe, it is still a struggle in many parts of Africa and other developing countries. Holkeri underscores the disparities in access to education based on gender, which is a critical factor in the broader fight for gender equality and economic development.

The quote suggests that despite global progress, significant gaps remain in certain regions where cultural, economic, and social barriers still prevent girls from attending school and receiving quality education. In many developing countries, traditional gender roles, poverty, and conflict often limit girls' opportunities for formal education, resulting in long-term effects on their empowerment and economic independence. Holkeri is drawing attention to the fact that achieving universal education for girls is not just a matter of access, but also of changing entrenched social and cultural norms.

Holkeri also emphasizes that ensuring girls’ access to education is not only an issue of human rights, but also of economic development. Educated girls tend to have better health outcomes, higher levels of economic participation, and the ability to contribute positively to their families and communities. Therefore, investing in girls' education is essential for the broader development goals of any nation, particularly in regions where inequality and poverty are most pronounced.

The origin of this quote comes from Holkeri's broader commitment to global development and peace-building. As a Finnish politician and former prime minister, he was actively involved in international efforts to address social issues, including those related to gender equality and education. His statement reflects his belief that investing in education for girls is a key solution for overcoming some of the most pressing developmental challenges in the world.