Although the Islamic Republic of Iran has experienced a revolution, a war, a major earthquake and political upheaval over the last few decades, it has made sustained progress in the areas of population and reproductive health. Continued progress in these areas is critical, because half of the country's population is under 20. The economic, political and reproductive behaviour of young people will be a powerful force shaping the country's future. The country also has one of the largest refugee populations in the world, including significant numbers of person displaced by the political situations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The partnership between UNFPA and the Iranian Government offers a vivid example of how political commitment, in the broad sense, can bring about a sea change in development in record time – even in a rapidly changing and culturally complex political environment. The following features examine how this partnership has generated progress in the arenas of women's education, family planning and emergency preparedness:

New Opportunities and Options for Iranian Women
Through its adult education programmes, the Literacy Movement Organization spreads messages about reproductive health, builds life skills and provides vocational training. In so doing, it reaches vulnerable and underserved populations throughout the country and advances social development.
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A Holistic Approach Underpins Success in Family Planning
The Islamic Republic of Iran is a textbook example that demonstrates how rapidly fertility rates can change in a supportive environment. Elements of Iran's success include a strong national consensus (forged with the help of Islamic clergy) to meet the economic needs of the population, strategic and concerted policies that link resources to population dynamics, and accessible reproductive health services offering a wide mix of contraceptive options. Full story…

Minimizing the Impact of Disaster
Addressing the specific needs of women and young people in the wake of a crisis is a development priority for this earthquake-prone country. UNFPA is embarking on an initiative to strengthen the nation's preparedness to meet reproductive health needs whenever emergencies strike the country. Full story…

Page last updated: 9 February 2006