Recognizing both the potential of financial inclusion and the extent of the work yet to be done, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon created the role of Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development (UNSGSA). In September 2009, he designated HRH Princess Máxima of the Netherlands for this role, based on her significant experience in banking and emerging markets as well as her demonstrated commitment to financial inclusion. An economist and investment banker by training, HRH Princess Máxima had played a role in the UN International Year of Microcredit in 2005. She also had served on the subsequent UN Advisors Group on Inclusive Financial Sectors from 2006 to 2008, and was a member of the Group’s Executive Committee and chair of its Working Group on Advocacy.
