One of the factors a country's economy depends on is human capital. If you don't provide women with adequate access to healthcare, education and employment, you lose at least half of your potential. So, gender equality and women's empowerment bring huge economic benefits.

Michelle Bachelet’s quote, "One of the factors a country's economy depends on is human capital. If you don't provide women with adequate access to healthcare, education and employment, you lose at least half of your potential. So, gender equality and women's empowerment bring huge economic benefits," emphasizes the critical role that women play in the economic development of a nation. Bachelet argues that human capital, which refers to the skills, knowledge, and experience possessed by individuals, is a key driver of economic growth. When women are denied access to essential resources like healthcare, education, and employment, a nation effectively squanders a large portion of its human potential.

The phrase "you lose at least half of your potential" is particularly striking, as it underscores the vast untapped contribution that women can make to the economy. By excluding women from economic opportunities, societies fail to harness the full capabilities of their population, leading to inefficiency and underdevelopment. Bachelet's statement is a call to action for policymakers to recognize that gender equality is not just a moral or social issue, but an economic imperative.

By linking gender equality to economic benefits, Bachelet is stressing that empowering women is not only good for justice but is also vital for the growth and prosperity of nations. When women have equal access to education, healthcare, and career opportunities, they contribute significantly to a country's workforce, productivity, and overall well-being. This leads to more diverse and resilient economies that can thrive in a competitive global environment.

The origin of this quote stems from Bachelet’s experience as a prominent political leader and advocate for women’s rights and social justice. As a former president of Chile and former Executive Director of UN Women, Bachelet has spent much of her career championing policies that advance gender equality and women's empowerment. Her work reflects her belief that empowering women is not only a matter of equity but a critical driver of economic growth and sustainable development.