.png?sfvrsn=6d0e27cd_1 "Partnership for Change - v7 (1)")
At the recent UN General Assembly Meeting to mark the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), representatives from around the world convened to reaffirm their dedication to the principles laid out at the ICPD held three decades ago in Cairo. This collective reaffirmation underscores the ongoing relevance of the ICPD's objectives in the contemporary global landscape.
80 Member States jointly delivered a powerful message, solidifying their unwavering commitment to the fundamental principles enshrined within the ICPD Programme of Action. Against the backdrop of pressing modern-day challenges like climate change, shifting demographics, and urbanization, the joint statement highlights the enduring relevance of the ICPD's goals in guiding efforts to safeguard comprehensive sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) worldwide.
The statement issues a resounding call to action, urging governmental bodies, civil society organizations, and private sector entities to intensify their endeavors toward ensuring universal access to comprehensive SRHR. Additionally, it stresses the imperative of expediting progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Leaders commend the strides made over the past three decades while advocating for sustained and enhanced investments in healthcare infrastructure and empowerment initiatives, renewing their commitment to elevating SRHR as key to sustainable development. Acknowledging the persistent global disparities, the statement emphasizes the necessity of adopting inclusive policies and interventions to mitigate inequities and leave no one behind. Efforts to dismantle barriers to access to services and combat gender-based discrimination are underscored as essential components of this overarching agenda.
With the deadline for achieving the SDGs looming ahead, the joint statement serves as a rallying cry for intensified action. PMNCH remains fully committed to support member-states in these efforts. The 2024-25 workplan renews our commitment to rally partners toward the goals of the ICPD Programme of Action, including through: (1) dissemination of knowledge and evidence to increase SRHR support within inter-governmental agreements, (2) enhance partner capacity to counter SRHR misinformation, and (3) strengthen advocacy networks for enhanced SRHR investment and policy. PMNCH also continues to prioritize the promotion of adolescent-specific SRHR (ASRHR) commitments to ensure a more equitable and sustainable world where every individual can make informed choices regarding their health and well-being.
Joint Statement at the UN General Assembly Meeting to mark the 30th Anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development – Delivered by the Honorable Princess Kasune, Minister for Central Province of Zambia