Faith-based organizations and other religious actors are decisive influencers of social norms, political discourse, and public policy in many contexts where UNFPA operates. With approximately 75 per cent of the world's population identifying with a religion, faith leaders and institutions are widely respected and hold deep-rooted moral authority within their communities.
UNFPA recognizes that engaging faith actors is critical to advancing the rights and choices for women and girls and realizing the Programme of Action agreed at the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). By collaborating with faith-based organizations and leaders, UNFPA promotes rights-based approaches within value systems that are widely trusted and respected.
UNFPA co-chairs the United Nations Interagency Task Force on Religion and Sustainable Development and collaborates closely with its 40-member Multifaith Advisory Council to advance the Sustainable Development Goals and the ICPD agenda.
