The 2010 global gender gap report by the World Economic Forum shows that countries with better gender equality have faster-growing, more competitive economies.

All boys and girls should have the opportunity to receive a high-quality education, no matter what part of the country they live in and irrespective of whether their parents are rich or poor. It is the state's duty to make sufficient money available for the establishment of good public schools. A well-educated youth is crucial so that Chile can continue to grow economically.

Having more women in company boards, in senior management, supervisory positions and workers in the formal sector is not only the right thing to do, but the smart thing to do. It's good for the bottom line.

My top priority for 2012 will be to make a renewed push for women's economic empowerment and political participation.

I took a gamble to exercise leadership without losing my feminine nature.

In some places women have all the rights they deserve and in others there are big restrictions - in some countries they even mutilate women.

There is no city or country in the world where women and girls live free of the fear of violence. No leader can claim: this is not happening in my backyard.