School closures as a result of stay-at-home orders have caused a devastating education crisis. A crisis that disproportionately impacted women and girls as they are 11% more likely to drop out of school than their male counterparts (USGLC 2022). Due to COVID-19 more than 20 million girls are at risk of dropping out of school and may never return (Malala Fund 2022). The increased poverty and inequality due to the pandemic are estimated to reverse the gains of global progress for girls’ education over the last twenty years (Oxfam International 2021). In a UNESCO survey of 29 countries across all regions, “two-thirds of low- and lower-middle-income countries have cut their education budgets since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Only a third of upper-middle and high-income countries have reduced their budgets”(2021). Poor internet connectivity and technological access necessary for online learning exacerbates existing education inequalities between the developing and developed world. Thus detrimentally impacting girls in developing countries. Estimates also project that due to school closures 10-13 million more female child marriages will take place by 2030 (Oxfam International 2021). In developing countries, child marriage risk has increased 25% each year, and the loss of household income compounds that risk by 3% (USGLC 2022). These numbers will only increase if adequate measures are not taken to ensure a safe return to school. For these reasons, through the “Let Her Lead” program, the founder of the US Institute of Human Rights and Diplomacy, Isabelle Vladoiu has emphasized the need to empower women and girls to tackle gender-based struggles. By offering annual scholarships to vulnerable women and girls in developing countries, USIDHR educates young women on economic development practices and their human rights. Giving them the tools to identify gender-based violence and empower them to advocate for and protect their human rights.