Global Support for the Cairo Population Agenda Proclaimed at the UN
On 9 October, representatives of countries around the world reiterated their support for the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development, which was held in Cairo in 1994.
Speaking at the 22nd plenary meeting of the 69th session of United Nations General Assembly on the follow-up to the Cairo conference, delegates identified new and emerging issues that the world is facing, including low fertility and ageing populations in certain regions. The post-2015 development agenda, they pointed out, could provide an opportunity to address these issues.
Delegates also shared their countries’ achievements and the challenges they still face in implementing the ICPD Programme of Action. Describing the Cairo agenda as the international community’s guideline for population issues, they highlighted progress that has been made in increasing access to reproductive health services and information. However, they added, significant gaps still exist, particularly in promoting gender equality, empowering women and girls, and achieving human security. Delegates also commended UNFPA’s efforts towards achieving the ICPD goals.
