Soroptimist International Past President Hanne Jensbo has received a letter of thanks from UN Women, recognising the work of SI and the Danish Union in supporting the former UN Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM).

"In these historic moments that hold great promist for women, as the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) is now full operational, I extend my sincere gratitude to Soroptimist International and Soroptimist International of Denmark for the generous support to the former UN Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM). In particular, your organisation’s vital contribution to cost-sharing programming in 2010 enabled us, in collaboration with other donors and our many partners, to support women’s political empowerment and participation, significantly enriching the prospects for the future of women in Afghanistan…

…In spite of the deepened challenges faced by women, we are heartened and energized by the strong support for UN Women expressed by donors and other partners. As we move forward with a new and comprehensive mandate that links the visionary promises that governments make with real change for women, we welcome the opportunity to continue building on the strong relationships already forged between UN Women and Soroptimist International.

Yours sincerely,

Lakshmi Puri

Deputy Executive Director