Biden will request $2.6 billion from Congress for global gender-equity plan

President Biden on Tuesday asked Congress $2.6 billion for foreign-assistance programs that promote gender equality worldwide. The funding request was announced on March 8, International Women's Day.

The funding package – announced on International Women's Day – will be part of his fiscal 2023 budget request to Congress and is doubling the amount he requested for gender programs last year – though a final budget for this fiscal year has technically still not been approved by Congress.

"On this day and every day, let us recognize that all of us have a better future when women and girls can reach their full potential – and together, let’s renew our efforts to advance dignity, equality, and limitless possibilities for all," Biden said in announcing the request.

Tuesday marks the the one-year anniversary of the Biden-led creation of the White House Gender Policy Council, which was established via executive order.

Republicans have repeatedly questioned why Biden focusing time and resources on such a program as more pressing and tangible issues that impact most if not all Americans unfold at home and abroad.