A father’s pledge – for my daughters and every daughter

08 Mar 2017 by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador

UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Nikolaj Coster-Waldau referees the Global Goals World Cup women's football tournament in Nairobi. Photo: UNDP Kenya

I just returned from Kenya, where I refereed the Global Goals World Cup. The international soccer tournament brought together everyday women and girls to play for the Global Goals that matter to them most, including gender equality and ending poverty.

It was a phenomenal experience! But equally impressive was my opportunity to see first-hand the great work that UNDP is doing creating greater opportunities for women and girls. I met women whose stories of improving their livelihoods and their communities amazed and inspired me.

If you’re like me, you draw inspiration from stories of real people who are actively working to build better futures for themselves and for the world. I think that’s something we all share.

As a father and husband, I’m passionate about advocating for issues that matter to me personally. I want a clean, safe, prosperous planet for my daughters to grow up in. I want them to live in a world that enables them to pursue their desires, maximize their potential, and strengthen those around them. One that doesn’t hold them back or dash their hopes because of their gender.

And I want this for every girl out there. Not just my own daughters and their friends, who are the fortunate ones, but also for the countless girls and women who live in poverty.

That’s why I’ve partnered with UNDP to fight for gender equality. Investing in women and girls is a smart move for it allows them to take control of their lives. Of their futures. And the evidence shows that everyone benefits.

Join me in standing up for the futures of daughters everywhere. Take the first step by signing my petition and pledging to help change the world through greater opportunities and hope to women and girls.