The more equality women have, the fairer, more civilized and tolerant society will be. Sexual equality is a lot more effective against terrorism than military strength.

In this quote, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, the former Prime Minister of Spain, makes a powerful connection between gender equality and the overall well-being of society. He argues that as women gain more equality, the society as a whole becomes fairer, more civilized, and tolerant. By emphasizing the positive societal outcomes of empowering women, Zapatero highlights the transformative power of gender equality in shaping social structures, promoting justice, and fostering peace.

Zapatero further asserts that sexual equality is not just a moral or social goal but also an effective tool in combating more severe issues, such as terrorism. His point is that addressing gender inequality can be a more powerful force for social stability than relying solely on military strength. In this context, Zapatero suggests that empowering women—by ensuring equal rights, opportunities, and access—helps create an environment where extreme ideologies, including those that fuel terrorism, are less likely to take root. He views gender equality as an essential part of broader efforts to build a peaceful and stable society.

The quote underscores Zapatero’s commitment to promoting women's rights and gender equality during his time in office. As Prime Minister, he was known for implementing progressive policies, including those aimed at enhancing women's representation in government and improving their rights in areas such as employment, healthcare, and family life. By equating gender equality with societal improvement, Zapatero positions it as a central element in creating more peaceful, inclusive, and progressive nations.

This quote also reflects a broader philosophical and political stance that gender equality is essential not only for the rights of women but for the health of society as a whole. Zapatero challenges the conventional reliance on military power to solve global problems, urging instead that a focus on equality—especially sexual equality—can be just as, if not more, effective in achieving long-term peace and stability.