Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin began his tenure as UNFPA’s Executive Director in January 2011. During his leadership, the world saw a raft of new challenges, as well as many important milestones. © UNFPA/Ra’ed Addayleh

When Dr. Osotimehin was appointed, he underscored UNFPA’s commitment to women’s empowerment and human rights, especially sexual and reproductive health and rights. © UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

During his leadership, the global population eclipsed 7 billion. Dr. Osotimehin used the occasion to call for investments in young people. Their educations, health and rights are key to a sustainable future. © UNFPA/Eric de Castro

He also presided over UNFPA during the historic adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals. Achieving these Goals is impossible without attaining gender equality and universal reproductive health, he said. © UN Photo/Kim Haughton

A medical doctor and longtime public health leader, Dr. Osotimehin championed efforts to lower maternal death rates. © UNFPA Colombia/Leonardo Cifuentes

Under his watch, UNFPA also redoubled its efforts to provide services in humanitarian crises, including health care, support for survivors of gender-based violence, and empowerment programmes for youth. © UNFPA/Nezih Tavlas

Most recently, Dr. Osotimehin called for the achievement of three transformative goals: zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet demand for family planning, and the elimination of harmful practices against women and girls. © UNFPA/Rick Francis

Dr. Osotimehin passed away in June 2017. He will be remembered for his expertise, leadership, and dedication to public health and human rights. © UNFPA/Ilona Lalova