GEORGIA: European Youth Parliament Begins
Several media outlets reported on 18 May that the first regional session of the European Youth Parliament – Georgia kicked off in Telavi, Kakheti. 80 youth representatives from all the regions of Georgia gathered for three days around a theme - Setting Directions for a Better Future. The first Telavi regional session was supported by UNFPA within the frameworks of UN Joint Programme “To Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia” and Telavi Municipality.
In the opening speech UNFPA/Georgia Assistant Representative, Mrs. Tamar Khomasuridze emphasized the importance of the event and underlined UNFPA/Georgia’s readiness to further support the projects designed and implemented by young people.
The delegates of the European Youth Parliament–Georgia discussed various issues and topics, such as women’s rights and gender equality, human rights, environment, public health and food safety, etc.
UNFPA is opening opportunities for young people through incorporating youth issues into national development strategies, expanding access to gender-sensitive sexual and reproductive health education, promoting a core package of health services and commodities for young people, and encouraging youth leadership and participation. Watch in Georgian: 1TV, Info9 Read in Georgian: ICK, Kakhtin News
GEORGIA: Census 2014 Approaching
Georgia Today on 3 May reported that the National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat) and UNFPA, held a donors’ conference on 30 April regarding the Population Census 2014. As a UN member state, Georgia is involved in the 2010 round of censuses; and due to the fact that this round ends in 2014, at the beginning of 2012, the UN included Georgia in the list of countries, which for certain reasons, could not perform the overall Census of Population. On 2 April, the Government Commission for Coordination of Population Census, on its first session, approved the 2014 Georgian Population Census Program and announced the date – 5 to 19 November 2014. UNFPA Assistant Representative Tamar Khomasuridze is quoted saying, “A census is the most reliable primary source of information and takes stock of a country’s most important asset – human capital.” Read in English: Georgia Today and Inter Press Service. Watch in Georgian: 1TV, iMedi, Maestro. Read in Georgian: BPI and Media News
GEORGIA: Men Talking to Men Training Session Launched
Various media outlets, reported on 11 April that the Men Talking to Men training session was launched by UNFPA in Telavi. The goal of the training was to advance the role and responsibility of men in ascertaining gender equality, ending violence against women and ensuring the respect of women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights.
“Men Talking to Men has been designed according to the methodology created and launched in Georgia in 2010 by Dr. Michael Kaufman, one of the founders of the White Ribbon campaign. According to the specificity of the methodology, the training courses are open to male participants only. Men Talking to Men trainings are the powerful methodology to invite men reconsider existing stereotypes and acknowledge their roles in ascertaining gender equality,” commented Mariam Bandzeladze, UNFPA component manager for the UN Joint Programme to Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia.
The training was organized by UNFPA/Georgia CO as part of the United Nations Joint Programme “To Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia,” implemented by three UN agencies, UNDP, UN Women and UNFPA, with the financial support of Swedish International Development Agency (Sida). Watch in Georgian: Tanamgzavri Read in Georgian: Speqtri
TURKEY/GEORGIA: Turkish Fertility Projections Reported
Georgiatoday.ge on 23 March reported that Prof. Ayse Akin, Prof. Korkut Ersoy and the United Nations Population Fund in Turkey (UNFPA) jointly prepared the "Right of Population Science and Management 2050" report. The report included projections of fertility in Turkey between the years of 2000-2050, "According to this, the fertility rate was 2.53 in 2000, 2.12 in 2010, and will be 2.01 in 2020, 1.95 in 2030, 1.9 in 2040 and 1.85.”
GEORGIA: Men Talking to Men Training Session Held
Georgia Today reported on 14 and 15 March, that Men Talking to Men, a five-day TOT training on gender equality, domestic violence, sexual and reproductive health and rights, was launched on 4 March. The TOT training was organized by UNFPA/Georgia CO within United Nations Joint Program “To Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia.” In line with its mandate, UNFPA’s focus for this joint program is to support the duty bearers to more effectively fulfill their obligations, as well as to stimulate rights-holders’ demand to have their reproductive rights respected. It is expected that creating an enabling policy environment by integrating sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender equality principles in relevant policies and action plans and encouraging education on reproductive health, it will be favorable for establishing equality between men and women and redressing discriminatory practices that continue to impede development. Read in English: Georgia Today and Georgia Today
GEORGIA: Men Talking to Men Training Session Launched
Georgian Independent Television Channel 9 on 7 March broadcast the interview with Mr. Mamuka Gachechiladze, the trainer of the Men Talking to Men training session organized by UNFPA/Georgia. Men Talking to Men, a five-day training on gender equality, domestic violence, sexual and reproductive health and rights, was kicked off on 4 March. The training was held within the framework of the Gender Week 2013 echoing the global campaign “A promise is a promise: Time For Action To End Violence Against Women.” Watch in Georgian: Georgian Independent Television Channel 9
GEORGIA: Population Numbers Declining
Trend.az on 14 February reported that according to the studies conducted by the UN Population Fund, by the year 2050, the population of Georgia would reduce by 1,170,000. Read in Russian: Trend.az
GEORGIA: Population Ageing Rapidly
Finchannel.com on 4 February reported that in 2030, the population of Georgia will reach 4.4 million, an increase of just 0.2 percent from 2010 and a decrease of 15.2 percent from its peak in 1992, according to Euromonitor International. Research from UNFPA, World Bank and US Census Bureau project that the population is gradually decreasing in Georgia and this tendency will be maintained in upcoming years. Read in English: Finchannel.com
GEORGIA: Country Has Regions Highest Rate of Early Marriage
Newsgeorgia.ru on 28 December reported that Georgia has the highest rate of early marriage in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region – followed by Moldova, Turkey and Tajikistan, according to the UN News Centre. 19% of girls aged 20 to 24 years in these countries were married before they reached 18 years. WHO, the United Nations Population Fund and its international partners are determined to put an end to the practice of early marriage. They call on countries to recognize that early marriage is a violation of human rights and to develop strategies to prevent this harmful tradition. Read in Russian: Newsgeorgia.ru
GEORGIA: Youth for Development and Human Rights
Various media outlets reported on 10 December that the United Nations Population Fund in Georgia marked International Human Rights Day and the closure of the "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence" campaign by organizing a “Youth for Development and Human Rights” event at the National Museum on 10 December. The event emphasized the role of youth in the advancement and support of human rights in Georgia and worldwide.
“Youth rights and development are priorities for the UNFPA programme in Georgia. The future of the world, the advancement of universally recognized values and the results of development, depend on the young generation. Today’s event bridges the global and national youth initiatives, revealing the priorities of ICPD Beyond 2014,” says Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, Assistant Representative, UNFPA/Georgia.
“Youth for Development and Human Rights” corresponded to the Global Youth Forum, “Youth Rights at the Heart of Development" held on 4-6 December in Bali, Indonesia, where the recommendations of Georgian youth, elaborated during the Youth National Forums, were included in the global priorities. In addition, the winners of two different contests – Best Media Work on Youth Issues and the Youth Contest on Youth Policy – were awarded by UNFPA/Georgia and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs of Georgia.
The event was attended by the members of the Parliament of Georgia, Gender Equality Council, Ministry of Sports and Youth of Georgia, State Interagency Council on Domestic Violence and representatives of various international organizations, UN agencies, NGOs, CBOSs and activists working on human rights, gender equality and youth policy issues in Georgia. Watch in Georgian: Inter Press News, MyVideo, PalitraTV Read in Georgian: Ambebi Read in English: Georgia Today
GEORGIA: Roundtable Discussion with Journalists and Bloggers on Sensitive Reporting
Various media outlets reported on 6 December that the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Georgia, within the framework of the UN Joint Programme Enhancing Gender Equality in Georgia, organized a roundtable discussion with journalists and bloggers. The main topic of discussion was the role of media in raising the population’s awareness on gender issues and thus contributing to changed attitudes and behaviour to gender equality.
The draft document Professional Standards on Gender Issues in the Georgian Media has been shared for professionals’ comments and feedback. During the meeting, Ms. Lela Bakradze, UNFPA Georgia programme analyst, emphasized that, once finalized, this document will serve as a foundation for making additions in the documents regulating media professional conduct; moreover, the document could be used to integrate the issues of sensitive and ethical reporting on gender issues in the relevant curricula of the bachelor and master degree programmes in journalism and mass communication at the institutions of higher learning in Georgia. Watch in Georgian: Palitra TV, Info9, Live.ge Read in Georgian: Inter Press News and Lishtotah
GEORGIA: Marking World AIDS Day
Several media outlets reported on 1 December that the UNFPA Georgia CO and Georgian Youth Development and Education Association (GYDEA) marked World AIDS Day in Tbilisi by conducting an information-education outdoor campaign. The Bus Tour was organized around Tbilisi universities to raise youth awareness on RH issues, HIV prevention and safe sexual behaviour. The campaign also intended to increase youth awareness on sexual and reproductive health and rights and to promote services offered at the youth friendly reproductive health centres. Within the frames of the event, peer educators disseminated IEC materials about HIV/AIDS prevention.
UNFPA Georgia County Office marks the World AIDS Day every year. By 1 December, 2012 a total of 3,608 HIV/AIDS cases have been registered in Georgia. Young people are one of the most vulnerable groups with regard to HIV/AIDS and UNFPA places special emphasis on youth development and their empowerment to make informed decisions in terms of their health and life. Read in Georgian: Media News Watch in Georgian: Maestro and 1TV
GEORGIA: UNFPA/Georgia Celebrates 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Inter Press News, Georgian Public Broadcaster, Iverioni News Agency and various other media outlets reported on 25 November on UNFPA/Georgia launching the "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence," a women’s rights campaign observed annually on 25 November to 10 December. Throughout the campaign, UNFPA/Georgia will conduct a series of activities, including TV and radio talk shows on women’s rights, movie screenings, youth discussions, media roundtables etc. 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence 2012 is held within the framework of the “UN Joint Programme on Enhancing Gender Equality,” generously supported by the Swedish Agency for Development and Cooperation and simultaneously implemented by three UN agencies – UNFPA, UN Women and UNDP. Read in Georgian: Ambioni, Iveroni, Net Gazeti, Ginsc Read in English: Inter Press News Watch in Georgian: MyVideo and Live GE
GEORGIA: Abortion Rate Down Due to Donor Assistance
finchannel.com on 29 October reported that the nation's impressive 48% decline in the total abortion rate from one of the highest registered rates in the world (3.2 in 2005 down to 1.6 in 2010) was mostly due to donor assistance, with USAID being a leading donor along with UNFPA. The total fertility rate increased from the below the replacement rate of 1.6 in 2005 to 2.0 in 2010, which is very important for the sustainable development of the 4.2 million population Georgia. Read in English: finchannel.com
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GEORGIA: Training for Radiologists on Breast Cancer Screening
Multiple media outlets reported on 23 October that the United Nations Population Fund in Georgia (UNFPA), the European School of Oncology (ESO), and the National Screening Center organized a two-day training on selected issues of breast cancer screening and diagnoses. The training was held at Tbilisi State Medical University and targeted 55 practicing radiologists and radiographers involved in the breast cancer screening program in Tbilisi and in the regions of Georgia. The training participants enriched their knowledge and skills with the experience, best practices and current tendencies in screening radiology shared by the ESO experts Dr. M. Rosselli Del Turco and Dr. Ambrogetti. Watch in Georgian: PalitraTV Read in English: GHN
GEORGIA: Youth Conference Reviews ICPD Progress
Various media outlets reported on 22 October that the United Nations Population Fund in Georgia (UNFPA) organized a youth conference “International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD): Results and Priorities in Georgia” at Tbilisi Youth Palace. The participants of the conference, high school students, discussed the implementation of the ICPD plan of action in gender equality, reproductive health and rights, empowerment of women, and youth health and development. The participants discussed the priorities and endorsed the youth declaration for ICPD beyond 2014. Watch in Georgian: MyVideo.ge
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON RELEASE OF AGEING REPORT
GEORGIA: Newsgeorgia.ru on 9 October discussed ageing and the release of the UNFPA report on ageing in the 21st century. Read in Russian: Newsgeorgia.ru
TAJIKISTAN: Khovar national news agency reported on 12 October that UNFPA, in partnership with Help Age International, conducted a press conference devoted to the presentation of the new report “Ageing in the Twenty-First Century: A Celebration and A Challenge.” The report commemorated several UN holidays such as the International Day of Older Persons (1 October) and the International Day of Rural Women (15 October) within the framework of global campaign Age Demand Action (ADA). Read in Russian: Khovar
Tajik TA and Vecherka reported on 15 and 16 October that UNFPA Tajikistan, with Help Age International, launched the new global report entitled “Ageing in the Twenty-First Century: A Celebration and A Challenge,” a landmark report co-published by the United Nations Population Fund and HelpAge International. The event was also devoted to the International Day of Rural Women (15 October). Read in Russian: Tajik TA, Vecherka
GEORGIA: Media Training on Sensitive Reporting
Multiple media outlets reported on 14 September that on 12-14 September, within the framework of the UN Joint Programme “Enhancing Gender Equality in Georgia,” UNFPA Georgia organized a media training on sensitive reporting on gender equality and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRH&R). The training was conducted for 20 journalists and media representatives from print, broadcast and electronic media outlets based in Kakheti Region and Tbilisi. The training was facilitated by the expert trainers in the fields of journalism, gender and SRH&R using special modules and tools to boost participants understanding on the technical issues as well as the standards of sensitive reporting on the aforementioned issues.
The 3 days training was opened by Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, UNFPA Georgia Assistant Representative, who introduced the UNFPA mandate and the Country Programme to the participants. “The training curriculum fully addresses gender, women’s rights and SRH&R issues, as well underscores ethical and human rights aspects related to these sensitive issues,” said Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze.
Ms. Eter Turadze, Editor-in-Chief of Netgazeti, an electronic newspaper said, “It is important that the journalists are aware and prepared to report sensitively on the issues like gender equality and sexual and reproductive health and rights.” Watch in Georgian: Palitra TV and YouTube
GEORGIA: Continuing Coverage on International Youth Day in Batumi
Georgia Today reported on 16 August that International Youth Day was celebrated in Georgia and featured a series of events organized in Batumi on 12 August.
UNFPA Georgia and its partner organizations – the First Lady’s Healthy Lifestyle Initiative “Don’t Worry, Be Healthy,” Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Employment Agency of Adjara, Municipality of Batumi, Batumi State University, Caucasus Social Marketing Association, and the Georgian Youth Development and Education Association - organized a number of sporting and cultural events in Batumi with the participation of local students, youths and summer holidaymakers.
Each event corresponded to priority topics such as youth for poverty reduction, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS prevention and healthy lifestyle, gender equality and peace.
International Youth Day activities included a poster exhibit on domestic violence, a painting contest on HIV/AIDS issues, a biking marathon, three flash-mobs, a beach football competition, and the safe behaviour, anti-tobacco, alcohol, and drugs campaign.
The peer educators distributed thematic brochures and booklets during the day. In addition to the street events, the students had an outstanding opportunity to participate in an information session on employment and professional growth at the Employment Agency of Ajara.
At the end of International Youth Day, awards were given out by Tamar Khomasuridze, UNFPA/Georgia Assistant Representative and Nugzar Putkaradze, the Head of the Adjara Department of Youth and Sports and Natia Surguladze, the Vice Mayor of Batumi.
The culmination of International Youth Day was celebrated by blowing up candle balloons symbolizing the remembrance of the victims of wars and youth willingness to build peace.
Read in English: Georgia Today
GEORGIA: Marking International Youth Day in Batumi
Various media outlets on 12 August reported that UNFPA Georgia with its partners – Georgia’s First Lady’s healthy lifestyle initiative “Don’t Worry, Be Healthy,” Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Employment Agency of Adjara, Municipality of Batumi, Batumi State University, Caucasus Social Marketing Association, and Georgian Youth Development and Education Association - organized a series of events to celebrate the International Youth Day in Batumi, Georgia.
Students and youth took part in sports and cultural activities organized on Batumi Boulevard. Each planned event corresponded to the priorities topics: Youth for poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS prevention and healthy lifestyle, gender equality and peace.
The students and groups of young activists organized the posters exhibit on domestic violence, the painting contest, the biking marathon, three flash-mobs, the beach football competition, safe behaviour, anti-tobacco, alcohol and drugs campaigns, etc. Peer-educators distributed thematic brochures and fliers amongst the holidaymakers and locals in the streets of Batumi throughout the day. Besides the street events, the students held an information session on employments and professional growth at the Employment Agency of Ajara. At the end of International Youth Day the winners of the contests were awarded by Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, UNFPA/Georgia Assistant Representative and the Vice Mayor of Batumi with the prizes. The culmination of International Youth Day was celebrated by blowing up candle balloons symbolizing remembrance of the victims of wars and youth willingness to build peace. Read in Georgian: New Georgia Watch in Georgian: Ajara TV and My Video
GEORGIA: Continuing Coverage on Student Face 2012
Georgia Today reported on 2 August that Batumi hosted the finals of the Student Face 2012 Beauty Contest. This fourth year of the contest was dedicated to women’s reproductive health and healthy lifestyles. The contest was organized by the Ministry of Sports and Youth of Georgia with the support of Georgia’s First Lady’s healthy lifestyle initiative, Don’t Worry, Be Healthy, the Georgian National Reproductive Health Council, and the UNFPA/Georgia Country Office. UNFPA Georgia Assistant Representative Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, as a member of the contest’s jury, took part in the evaluation of the contestants and, along with the other members, identified the winner of the best message for promoting a healthy lifestyle and reproductive health.
The jury identified two winners for the best messages on health promotion – Ms. Medea Akhalkatsi, a student of Gori State University received a bicycle as a special prize given by Georgia’s First Lady’s healthy lifestyle initiative, Don’t Worry, Be Healthy, and Ms. Ana Zenaishvili, a student of Batumi State University received a netbook from the UNFPA CO.
The winners as well as the other contestants will continue to participate in the youth initiatives and projects supported by the UNFPA and the Don’t Worry, Be Happy Initiative to promote healthy lifestyles and increase awareness on reproductive health issues among the peers. Read in English: Georgia Today
GEORGIA: Beauty Contest Promotes Reproductive Health
Multiple media outlets reported that on 28 July Batumi hosted the finals of the Student Face 2012 Beauty Contest. This fourth year of the contest was dedicated to women’s reproductive health and healthy lifestyles. The contest was organized by the Ministry of Sports and Youth of Georgia with the support of Georgia’s First Lady’s healthy lifestyle initiative "Don’t Worry, Be Healthy," the Georgian National Reproductive Health Council, and the UNFPA/Georgia Country Office. Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, UNFPA/Georgia assistant representative, as a member of the contest’s jury, took part in the evaluation of the contestants and, along with the other members, identified the winner of the best message for promoting healthy lifestyle and reproductive health.
The jury identified two winners for the best messages on health promotion – Ms. Medea Akhalkatsi, a student of Gori State University, received a bicycle as a special prize given by Georgia’s First Lady’s healthy lifestyle initiative "Don’t Worry, Be Healthy" and Ms. Ana Zenaishvili, a student of Batumi State University, received a netbook from the UNFPA CO.
The winners as well as the other contestants will continue to participate in the youth initiatives and projects supported by the UNFPA and the Don’t Worry, Be Healthy Initiative to promote healthy lifestyles and increase awareness on reproductive health issues among the peers. Watch in Georgian: MSY, Ajara TV, My Video, My Video and My Video Read in Georgian: PT Press and PT Press
GEORGIA: Student Face 2012 to Join Women’s Health and Healthy Lifestyle Campaign
Multiple media outlets reported on 17- 20 July that on 17 July UNFPA hosted 30 participants of the Student Face 2012 beauty contest, organized by the Ministry of Sport and Youth of Georgia, at the UN Building in Tbilisi. This year, the contest is dedicated to women’s reproductive health and healthy lifestyles. The contestants were welcomed by Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, Assistant Representative of UNFPA Georgia, Ms. Irina Onashvili, the organizer of the contest, and Ms. Eka Laliashvili, representative of Georgia’s First Lady’s Healthy Lifestyle Initiative Don’t Worry, Be Healthy.
Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, during her presentation briefed the contestants about UNFPA’s goals and objectives, talked about the importance of reproductive health and rights, and shared the information regarding existing and ongoing programmes for Georgia’s population. One of the main goals of the meeting was to give an assignment to the contestant for the final gala show, which will be held on 28 July in Batumi where the girls will present their creative, smart and innovative short message that relates to women’s health and healthy lifestyles. The winner will be identified based on the relevance with the following statement: “In order to be healthy we have to…” The winner of the healthy lifestyle category will receive special prizes - a bicycle from Georgia’s First Lady’s Healthy Lifestyle Initiative Don’t Worry, Be Healthy, which will symbolize and promote a healthy lifestyl and a UNFPA-provided netbook in order to further continue cooperation with UNFPA youth programme promotion amongst peers using Facebook and other social-media tools. Read in English: Georgia Today Read in Georgian: Pirweli, Georgia Internet, Msy Watch in Georgian: AjaraTV, Radio Ajara, My Video and My Video Watch in Russian: My Video
GLOBAL: World Population Day
ALGERIA: Le Soir d'Algerie, El Moudjahid and Horizons on 12 July reported on the country's World Population Day celebration which took place in the National Institute of Public Health with the participation of the Minister of Health Dr. Djamel Ould Abbes and the UNFPA Representative. According to UNFPA, family planning is a basic human right. However, it remains meaningless unless individuals and couples have access to contraceptives, information and services to enable them to exercise that right. We have to meet the needs of the 222 million women who want to delay or avoid pregnancy but have no access to modern contraceptives. Read in French: Le Soir d'Algerie, El Moudjahid and Horizons
ARMENIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on World Population Day and the event organized by UNFPA Armenia to mark it. Garik Hayrapetyan, UNFPA Armenia Assistant Representative, addressed the participants in his welcome notes. Following the introduction, Meri Khachikyan, Director of "For Family and Health" the Pan-Armenian Association NGO, made a presentation on "Key Factors Influencing Contraceptive Behavior in Eastern Europe and Central Asia." The presentation covered a 2011 study conducted in seven countries of the region, including Armenia, which was aimed at increasing the understanding of the low use of modern contraception and the key factors influencing contraceptive behavior in the region. Read in English: Public Radio of Armenia, Ankakh.com, A1plus News, Panorama.am, Lurer.com. Read in Russian: 7 Days News, Armenpress News Agency, Slaq.am, Panorama.am. Read in Armenian: 7 Days News, 7 Days News, Panorama.am, Panorama.am, Aysor.am, MediaLab, Henaran Press Club, Armenpress News Agency, Armenpress News Agency, Lurer.com, A1plus News, Ankakh.com, Hraparak Daily. Listen in Armenian: Radio Liberty
AZERBAIJAN: AzerTAc reported on 11 July that UNFPA and he Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Azerbaijan conducted a round table devoted to the “Role of Communication in Access to Reproductive Health Services.” The event was chaired by the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Elmira Suleymanova and the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, Fikret Akcura.
Mr. Akcura commended the economic advance and the high pace with which Azerbaijan was resolving poverty at the national level, hereby investing in human capital, as well as furthering gender equality and other MDG targets. As the UNFPA Representative in Azerbaijan, he reemphasized the importance of proper communication and dissemination of unbiased, evidence-based information on reproductive health and family planning services. The high-ranked representatives from the Ministry of Health, National Reproductive Health Office (NRHO), the State Committee on Family, Women and Children Affairs, the Ministry of Youth and Sport, and other long-standing partners of UNFPA once again thanked the organization for its technical assistance in realization of the advanced programmes in the country targeting the unmet RH/FP needs of the population. Read in Azerbaijani: AzerTAc
BANGLADESH: The Daily Star on 11 July published an op-ed by UNFPA Representative Arthur Erken on World Population Day urging an increase in family planning. "So yes, Bangladesh has done remarkably well when it comes to reducing its population growth rate, and in reducing the number of children a woman has these days. But, providing universal access to quality family planning information and services to all those who want to plan their families remains the greatest unfinished agenda of Bangladesh! So, on this World Population Day, let us redouble our efforts to make family planning again our top priority" he said. Read in English: Daily Star
The Daily Star on 12 July reported that as a result of the government's move to control overpopulation, 60 percent of women across the country have access to family planning. However the Prime Minister's Adviser for Health and Family Welfare Affairs Syed Modasser Ali noted that, “Although we have brought sixty percent women under the family planning services in order to reduce birth rate, we can not claim it as a success because we have to ensure hundred percent success." He was the chief guest at a discussion to mark World Population Day. UNFPA Representative in Bangldesh Arthur Erken also addressed the programme. Read in English: Daily Star
Gulf Times, News Today, UNF Connect and The Daily Star on 8-13 July published stories on a parliamentary debate competition jointly organized by UNFPA Bangladesh and Debate for Democracy to mark World Population Day and foster discussion of population issues amongst youth. Eight renowned schools from Dhaka took part in the competition, while 800 students enjoyed the competition. UNFPA Bangladesh Representative Arthur Erken is quoted saying, “Over the period of three decades, the total fertility rate has come down from 7 to 2.3. But, as 1/4th of the populace is young, they should have sufficient knowledge and skills on adolescent sexual reproductive health." Read in English: Gulf Times, News Today, UNB Connect and The Daily Star
BELIZE: Channel 5 on 11 July broadcast a TV programme, Open Your Eyes, featuring Erika Goldson, Assistant Representative in Belize for UNFPA. She discussed the intricacies of World Population Day and the activities taking place in Belize. Read in English: Channel 5 and LoveFM
BENIN: Multiple media outlets on 11 and 12 July reported that the United Nations Population Fund, in cooperation with the Benin Government, celebrated World Population Day under the theme "Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services," at Djakotomey. This municipality has one of the lowest rates of contraception use (1.6 % according to the sanitary statistics of 2011).
BOLIVIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July that UNFPA Bolivia celebrated World Population Day in close coordination with the Ministry of Health. A new plan to reduce maternal mortality was launched. The main event took place in La Paz, with similar local presentations in the cities of Cochabamba, Sucre and Potosi. Jaime Nadal, UNFPA Representative, highlighted the need for universal access to reproductive health in order to achieve MDG 5. Read in Spanish: Página Siete, La Razón, Los Tiempos, Los Tiempos, Opinión, Correo del Sur, Gaia Noticias, Jornada, ERBOL, ERBOL, PIEB, Radio FM Bolivia, Radio FM Bolivia, El Diario, El Deber, Bolivia.com, Infanciahoy.com, peopledaily.com, Opinion, La Razon
BRAZIL: Jornal do Brasil and other outlets reported on 11 July that the United Nations celebrated World Population Day by calling for more action in the area of reproductive health. UNFPA Executive, Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, stressed that 222 million women who do not want to become pregnant have no access to contraceptives. Lack of access to reproductive health continues to cause deaths for women of reproductive age. Dr. Osotimehin also said that 1.8 billion young people worldwide have no access to information and services while making decisions about reproductive health. Read in Portuguese: Jornal do Brasil and Sidneyrezende
BURKINA FASO: Observateur Paalga on 12 July reported on World Population Day celebrations in Burkina Faso. According to the newspaper, the acting representative of UNFPA, Pascal Karorero, who delivered the message of UNFPA Executive Director, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, said that, "it is time for leaders to renew their commitment to ensure universal access to services for reproductive health, especially to voluntary family planning." The newspaper said that the technical advisor to the Minister of Economy and Finance, who chaired the ceremony, called on all actors in society to work for the theme of the day, "Universal access to reproductive health services" a reality.
CHINA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on World Population Day and its theme of "Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services." Read in Chinese: Xinhua Net
CNTV English Channel and CNTV Chinese reported on 11 July on the Asian Symposium on Building Sustainable Aging Society convened in Changchun of Jilin Province on 5 July. Mr Arie Hoekman, Representative of UNFPA China, attended the opening ceremony and selected sessions. He was interviewed by national media during the meeting and quoted saying, "China’s population is ageing more rapidly than most countries in the world. France has doubled its aged population, which is over 60 years old, to 14% from 7% within 115 years, in Sweden within 85 years. But China made it in only 27 years. It is estimated that there will be 332 million people over the age of 60 in China in 2050. Such severe ageing problems require improvement and diversity of community retirement services for the elderly."
The story was broadcasted as a major piece on the World Population Day on 11 July on CCTV. Watch in English: CNTV Watch in Chinese: CNTV Chinese
Sohu on 11 July a UNFPA China sponsored World Population Day event entitled, "Voices of Youth, Initiative of Cooperation” co-organized by the China Family Planning Association (CFPA) and China Youth Network in Shenzhen on 10 July. Mr. Arie Hoekman, Representative of UNFPA China attended the opening ceremony and gave a speech. Local media outlets were invited and a joint press release was prepared. Mr. Hoekman was quoted saying, “Every young person has the right to comprehensive sexuality education, and access to youth-friendly reproductive health services. With the right policies, investments and social support, young people can enjoy healthier lives free of poverty, violence and exploitation.” UNFPA-supported survey findings on youth access to sexual and reproductive health were provided to the media. Read in Chinese: Sohu, Oeee, and China.com
CONGO-BRAZZAVILLE: Tele-Congo reported on 12 July on the celebration of World Population Day on 11 July in Kinkala, in the Pool region, and specifically on a debate on Universal access to reproductive health. UNFPA Representative, David Lawson, and Health Minister Chief of Staff, Alexandre Alumba, were keynote speakers at this event. While outlining progress made in Congo on maternal mortality reduction over the past three years, Mr. Lawson called on the government for free family planning services in Congo. He said, "while free c-section has brought tremendous progress in maternal health, free family planning would enhance further this positive trend and help reach MDG5." Watch in French: Daily Motion
Tele-Congo and DRTV broadcast on 11 July the UNFPA Executive Director's message on World Population Day delivered by UNFPA Representative in Congo David Lawson. In line with the London Summit on Family Planning, the message focuses on this year's theme “Universal Access to Reproductive Health” and calls for greater action on family planning to reduce maternal mortality. Watch in French: Daily Motion
CUBA: Multiple media reported on 12 July on the celebrations of World Population Day in Cuba dedicated to universal access to reproductive health. The media published reports organized by the Scientific Scrub Cuban School of Public Health (ENSAP) and about the intervention of Jesus Robles, International Coordinator of the UNFPA Program in Cuba. Read in Spanish: Granma, Juventud Rebelde, CubaAhora, Radio Reloj, Revista Mujeres
Several media outlets on 11 July reported that the celebration of World Population Day in Cuba, promoted by UNFPA, was an opportunity to reflect on long-term population dynamics on the island and the challenges it poses to society. Cuba’s low fertility and rapid ageing process pose challenges to the island’s sustainable development. Read in Spanish: Revista Mujeres, Telecrentro Solvision, Tribuna de La Habana
Emisora CMHW reported on 10 July that Rolando Garcia Quiñones, Cuba's Assistant Representative of UNFPA, said youth participation is crucial to the success of the Greater Antilles in the field of sexual and reproductive health and protection of vulnerable demographic sectors. Read in Spanish: Emisora CMHW
DENMARK: Berlingske Tidende on 11 July published a joint op-ed by the Chief of UNFPA Nordic Office Pernille Fenger and Executive Director of the Danish Family Planning Association Bjarne B. Christensen. In the op-ed they discussed the realities of poor, young women not being able to decide when to have children. They point to the fact that with concerted efforts poor countries have obtained remarkable results in meeting women’s rights. The op-ed was a lead up to the London Summit on Family Planning. Read in Dutch: Berlingske Tidende
U-landsnyt.dk on 11 July published a joint press release by the UNFPA Nordic Office and the Danish FPA on the London Summit on Family Planning, with quotes from the Danish Minister for Development Corporation Christian Friis Bach, Chief of UNFPA Nordic Office, Pernille Fenger and Executive Director of the Danish FPA Bjarne B. Christensen. The release highlights the goal of meeting the needs of 120 million women and the renewed focus on family planning which the London Summit is an indication of. Read in Dutch: U-landsnyt.dk
Berlingske Tidende on 11 July, as well as several regional newspapers, published an article on a new large-scale initiative to give 120 million women access to contraception. The article quotes UNFPA's Executive Director stating that, “there is no excuse, neither cultural nor religious, that women should not be able to use contraception.” Read in Dutch: Berlingske Tidende, Berlingske Tidende, and JV.dk
Information on 11 July featured an article on the numbers from adding it up and the information – including a quote from the Chief of the UNFPA Nordic Office – on the London Summit. Read in Dutch: Information
Information on 11 July mentioned UNFPA and the London Summit in a human interest story. Read in Dutch: Information
Kristeligt Dagblad on 13 July reported on the outcome of the London Summit and quotes the Chief of the UNFPA Nordic Office (based on an interview conducted 12 July). In addition to telling about the commitments made at the conference, the article discusses how this renewed focus on family planning, the significant commitments by developing countries themselves and the involvement of a Catholic woman like Melinda Gates may serve to alleviate the controversy and add a more pragmatic approach to the subject.
EL SALVADOR: Multiple media outlets reported on World Population, and UNFPA-related activities around the theme of "Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services." Read in Spanish: La Prensa Gráfica, Equilibrium, Diario CoLatino (news 1), Diario CoLatino (news 2) and Website of the Institute of Youth in El Salvador - CONJUVE
Diario CoLatino on 12 July that this World Population Day, UNFPA stressed its speech on universal access to reproductive health services as an important goal for human development. Read in Spanish: Diario CoLatino and Diario CoLatino
La Prensa Grafica on 12 July reported that UNFPA celebrated World Population Day by remembering the day of 7 billion. Read in Spanish: La Prensa Grafica
La Palabra Universitaria on 13 July reported that UNFPA and the Ministry of Health celebrated World Population Day by focusing on the need for univeral access to reproductive health services. Read in Spanish: La Palabra Universitaria
UNFPA collaborated with several partners to publish pieces on World Population Day. Read in Spanish: Caminando hacia la Igualdad Sustantiva, INJUVE and Instituto Salvadoreno Del Seguro Social
ETHIOPIA: The Daily Monitor on 12 July reported that UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for more to be done to help those who most need access to reproductive health care. “I call for urgent concerted action by member states to bridge the gap between demand and supply for reproductive health care,” Mr. Ban said.
“Reproductive health and rights are integral to sustainable development and poverty reduction. Investing in universal access to reproductive health is a crucial investment in healthy societies and a more sustainable future,” he added.
The theme for this year is ‘Universal access to Reproductive Health Services,’ aimed at highlighting the essential part that reproductive health plays in creating a just and equitable world. “Working for the survival and the well-being of women and girls is a human right imperative. And in order to take advantage of women’s full potential in the development of their nations, they must be able to plan their lives and families,” the Executive Director of the UN Population Fund Babatunde Osotimehin said.
GABON: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on the celebrations of World Population Day, held in Libreville. UNFPA Representative Nadir Hadj-Hammou, Vice Health Minister Alice Bikissa Nembe and Social Affairs Honorine Nzet Bitheghe made statements on the theme of the day "Universal access to reproductive health." The Vice Health Minister affirmed that this matter was among President Bongo's priorities. Mr. Hammou lamented that, despite its resources, the country had a maternal mortality (519 deaths for 100,000 live births) above the African average rate. He called for the need to strengthen efforts to address the family planning needs of 222 million women willing to avoid or delay pregnancy and reduce maternal mortality.
GEORGIA:Multiple media outlets reported on 11-13 July on World Population Day and published the message for World Population Day 2012 made by UNFPA's Executive Director, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin. Georgia Today interviewed Tamar Khomasuridze, UNFPA/Georgia assistant representative, focusing on the theme of universal access to reproductive health services in Georgia. According to her, in recent years, Georgia has made considerable progress with regard to improving capacity to provide reproductive health services and that universal access to reproductive health services, in some parts of Georgia, has now come close to reaching the Millendium Development Goals targets by 2015. The Assistant Representative also spoke about the major achievements, namely the results of the Georgia Reproductive Health Survey 2010, that showed the improvements in the reproductive health status of the population. In particular, for the first time since 1999, the birth-rate has surpassed the abortion rate in Georgia. Read in English: Georgia Today, Georgia Today and Inter Press News Read in Georgian: Radio Tavisupleba
GUATEMALA: Various national media on 11 July reported on public activities to commemorate World Population Day and that family planning is a key factor to achieving the objectives of the governmental program, "Zero Hunger," which fights chronic malnutrition among the poorest families in the country. The media also referred to the number of pregnancies in girls and adolescents, a reality that leads to malnutrition and the decreased development for adolescent girls. UNFPA Representative Leonor Calderón is mentioned in several pieces. Read in Spanish:Prensa Libre, Siglo 21,La Hora, La Hora, Diario de Centroamérica, CERIGUA, CERIGUA (Nota Babatunde Osotimehin), EDG Noticias
GUINEA: Goha Guinee on 10 July reported on a family planning advocacy day for religious authorities. Prior to World Population Day, the workshop brought together twenty imams, religious leaders and administrative authorities of Labe. On this occasion, verses from the Koran promoting family planning were identified. The participants proposed activities and committed themselves to promote family planning at meetings and during social ceremonies. Read in French: Goha Guinee
GUYANA: Stabroek News on 12 July published a story on the launch of a new report recommending the upgrade of government-run hospitals performing deliveries in order to boost maternal and newborn care. The report, lauch 11 July, under the theme “Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services,” at the Ocean View Convention Centre, East Coast Demerara, coincided with World Population Day. The report, which gives a detailed assessment of all maternity facilities in Guyana during the year 2010, was supported by non-governmental organisations such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Pan American Health Organisa-tion (PAHO) among others. Read in English: Stabroek News and Guyana Chronicle
INDONESIA: Mediaindonesia.com on 11 July reported that, “the level of maternal and infant mortality in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) province is far higher than the average of national rate. In 2011, the MMR was reported at 306 per 100,000 live births, well above the national figure of 228. UNFPA Representative, Mr. Jose Ferraris, said that the high level of MMR and IMR have driven UNFPA to focus its programmes in NTT to address issues related to mother and child health. UNFPA works in three programmes of family planning revitalization, improving the universal access to reproductive health in general and implementing a model for friendly health service for youth and adolescents. “ Read in Indonesian: Mediaindonesia.com
The Jakarta Post on 12 July reported that “The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) will assist the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) administration to provide reproductive health services for teens, aged 15 to 19, following a recent report by the Indonesia Demographic and Health Survey (SDKI) that only 45.4 per cent of married teens had access to contraception. “There are many cases that young women who get married early still face discrimination. There are even women who get pregnant before marriage and do not have access to basic health services, as they are the black sheep of the family,” said Moudy Taopan of UNFPA’s Youth Advisory Panel (YAP), on Wednesday."
Mediaindonesia.com on 12 July reported “men’s participation in family planning through condom usage remains low in Indonesia, as the condom is still associated with a negative connotation (of having extra marital sex). This perception is just one of many other misperceptions in the area of reproductive sex such as that providing reproductive health service to young people will lead to increasing their sexual activities, said UNFPA Representative Jose Ferraris in a seminar on Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services held to commemorate World Population Day in Indonesia. The seminar took place in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara on Wednesday, 11 July. Read in Indonesian: Mediaindonesia.com
Timorexpress.com on 13 July reported that, “World Population Day is celebrated this day each year by UN member states around the world to focus attention on the urgency and importance of issues related to population. This year’s theme of “Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services” was selected to accelerate progress and reenergize commitments toward achievement of this goal. UNFPA Representative, Jose Ferraris, said in his speech for the opening ceremony in Ima Hotel in Kupang on Wednesday, 11 July, that based on the population structure in Indonesia, the number of people aged 15-29 accounted at 126 million people at the moment. This number means opportunity but also challenge for the country.” Read in Indonesian: Timorexpress.com
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN: Multiple media outlets from 2 July on reported on World Population Day events including speeches by the Minister of Health and Medical Education, the Deputy Minister of Health and UNFPA's Ms. Soudabeh Ahmadzadeh. Read in Farsi: Ghatreh, Ghatreh, IRNA, Ghatreh, IRNA, Ghatreh, Ghatreh, Ghatreh, Salamat News, Salamat News, Salamat News
JAMAICA: Multiple media outlets from 10-15 July reported on World Population observance in Jamaica. In her opening remarks at a symposium celebrating the day, Director of the UNFPA Sub-regional Office for the Caribbean Ms. Geeta Sethi, urged governments to invest in reproductive health services. “People are the most important resource of a country and given the Caribbean’s large youth population, half of which is below 25 years old, special emphasis must be placed on meaningful investment in young people’s education, health, and in equipping them to make responsible choices,” she stated. Several print and electronic media covered the event including the Jamaica Observer, the Gleaner, and the Jamaica Information Service. Read in English: Jamaica Observer, Jamaica Information Service, Jamaica Information Service, Jamaica Observer and Jamaica Observer
JORDAN: Al Rai, Petra News Agency and multiple news agencies reported on 11 July that Jordan joined the world in celebrating World Population Day 2012. Media outlets talked about this year's theme and how UNFPA Jordan is working with the Government of Jordan to achieve greater access to reproductive health services.
The articles concluded with a quotation of Dr. Osotimehin, “Today, as we commemorate World Population Day, it is time to re-energize our commitment to universal access to reproductive health services, especially family planning services. This commitment is as relevant today as it was when world leaders made it at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo.” Read in Arabic: Al Rai, Petra News Agency, Ammon News, Almadenah News, Al Arabiya, Jordanzad.
KYRGYZSTAN: CentralAsia, KNEWS, 24KG, VB, Akipress reported on 11 July that UNFPA held a press conference with the participation of the Resident Coordinator and a representative of the Ministry of Health. “Availability of affordable life-saving medicines, contraceptives and other essential health supplies is a vital part of well-functioning health systems that can serve people in an equitable manner,” said Alexander Avanessov, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Kyrgyz Republic. “Access to voluntary family planning alone can also reduce unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal deaths and disabilities, saving women's lives and those of their children,” added Mr. Avanessov.
In Kyrgyzstan, the young segment aged 14 to 28 represent 30.2% of the whole population. In this context, it is crucial to invest in young people’s health and education, improve access to sexual reproductive health services and age-appropriate, friendly services. “When young people can exercise their right to health and education, and have a decent job, they can contribute to improving their nations and escape poverty,” said Alexander Avanessov. Read in Russian: 24KG, Namba, 24KG, Namba, Centrasia, VB, KNEWS, KNEWS, 24KG, 24KG, Akipress
LIBERIA: The Daily Observer on 13 July reported that the Chairman of the Liberia Traditional Council, at a World Population Day celebration, has cautioned youth not to engage in risky sexual behaviour. UNFPA-Liberia’s Resident Representative, Esperance Fundira, read a message on behalf of UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin at the event. Read in English: Daily Observer
The Inquirer on 11 July reported that UNFPA has disclosed that teenage pregnancy in Liberia stands at 38 per cent; unmet needs for family planning stand at 36 per cent while conceptive prevalence is only 11 per cent. Read in English: The Inquirer
The Inquirer on 13 July reported that according to the United Nations 2012 report, Trends in maternal mortality, Liberia's maternal mortality ratio has reduced from 994 out of every 100,000 live births to 770 out of every 100,000 live births, down by 224. UNFPA UNFPA Representative, Esperance Fundira, speaking during the Observance of World Population Day said, “To make greater progress, every woman needs access to basic package of reproductive health services.” Read in English: The Inquirer
The News on 13 July reported that, while speaking at a one-day World Population Day seminar organized by the National Lutheran Church Women Fellowship in Monrovia, UNFPA representative Madam Fundira said the choice one makes in his/her life in the bearing of children determines their future and should not be blamed on the civil war in Liberia. Read in English: The News
The News reported on 12 July that more than 800 women died daily in pregnancy or childbirth from complications that are very often preventable, the Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr. Babatunde Osotinmehin has revealed. Read in English: The News
The Informer on 12 July reported that UNFPA has lauded what it calls Liberia's progress in reducing maternal mortality in the country. UNFPA Liberia Resident Representative, Esperance Fundira, made the commendation yesterday at the program marking the 2012 World Population Day held at the SKD complex outside Monrovia. Read in English: The Informer
Front Page on 12 July reported that the Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund has expressed alarmed over the high level of unwanted pregnancies in Liberia. Read in English: Front Page
MEXICO: More than 50 media outlets such as Excelsior, La Jornada, Reforma, CNN México, El Universal, Milenio, Cronica, Pulsoslp, , Noticias Yahoo, Info7, El Arsenal, OEM, el Golfo, Síntesis, Informativo Chiapas, Chiapas Hoy, El Heraldo de Chiapas, Expreso Chiapas, El Pendulo de Chiapas, Cuarto Poder, Tabasco Hoy, Quadratin, Cambio de Michoacan, El mundo de Córdoba, Noticias Terra, Vocero Quintana Roo, Diario La Verdad, Rotativo, Pulso DF reported on the several activities, such as a press conference, journalist workshop and study tour to a project in Chiapas organized by UNFPA Mexico, on the occasion of the World Population Day. Diego Palacios Jaramillo, UNFPA Mexico Representative pointed out that access to reproductive health should be a priority for the next Mexican government and for the international community as a whole. During the press conference he also mentioned that today, pregnancy and childbirth-related complications are the major cause of death among girls 10 to 19 years old in most developing countries, while the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections are among young people aged 15 to 24. Read in Spanish: Excelsior, La Jornada, Reforma, CNN México, El Universal, Milenio, Cronica, Pulsoslp, Noticias Yahoo, Info7, El Arsenal, OEM, el Golfo, Síntesis, Informativo Chiapas, Chiapas Hoy, El Heraldo de Chiapas, Expreso Chiapas, El Pendulo de Chiapas, Cuarto Poder, Tabasco Hoy, Quadratin, Cambio de Michoacan, El mundo de Córdoba, Noticias Terra, Vocero Quintana Roo, Diario La Verdad, Rotativo, Pulso DF, OEM, Guerrero, Ciudad y Poder, Jornada, Cuarto poder, Chiapas Hoy, Jornada, El Herald o de Chiapas, Es Diario, OEM, Noticias de Chiapas, Imparcial Chiapas, Diario de Chiapas, OEM, El Cuarto Deguerra, Yucatan, Yucatan, Diario Portal, Omnia, e-Tlaxcala, El Mundo, Jornada, Milenio, Reforma, Cuarto Poder, NL, Jornada, Comunicacion Chiapas
MOLDOVA: Radio Chisinau on 11 July reported on the UNFPA press conference organized in celebration of the World Population Day. The article talked about the demographic situation in Moldova as well as about reproductive health issues, especially on universal access to reproductive health services. Read in Romanian: Radio Chisinau.
24h.md reported on 11 July on the importance of reproductive health education as well as universal access to RH services and quoted Mr. Boris Gilca, UNFPA Assistant Representative in Moldova and other speakers at the conference several times. Read in Romanian: 24h.md
Pro TV Moldova reported on 11 July on the flash mob, Informed and Protected, organized by Y-Peers to inform people on reproductive and sexual health to prevent sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. The demographic situation in the country was highlighted. Read in Romanian: Pro TV Moldova
Radio Free Europe on 11 July reported on the demographic crisis in Moldova, quoting Boris Gilca, UNFPA Assistant Representative in Moldova, on the issue. Read in Romanian: Radio Free Europe
Radio Free Europe on 11 July interviewed Mr. Mihai Moldovanu, deputy prime minister, Head of the National Commission for Population and Development, who participated in the UNFPA press conference on World Population Day, on the demographic situation in Moldova. Read in Romanian: Radio Free Europe
Teleradio Moldova on 11 July reported on WPD and the alarming statistics on the current issues presented by UNFPA Moldova. Read in Romanian: Teleradio Moldova
EuroTv on 11 July reported that the new priority of the Moldovan Government in population development is to provide access to reproductive health to the entire population. The Government wants to assure the access to reproductive Health Offices and Youth Friendly Service Clinics. Read in Romanian: EuroTV
Radio Free Europe on 12 July conducted an interview with Boris Gilca, UNFPA Assistant Representative in Moldova, on WPD and concerns about the demographic future of Moldova. Read in Romanian: Radio Free Europe
Privesc on 11 July broadcast a live transmission of the UNFPA World Population Day press conference. Watch in Romanian: Prevesc
View the widely broadcast video spots: YouTube1, YouTube2, YouTube3
MONGOLIA: The Mongol News on 4 July reported that the Ministry of Social Welfare and Labour, Ministry and Health and UNFPA in Mongolia jointly organized a press conference on World Population Day. The joint press release was printed in the UB Post on 9 July. The Mongolian version of the press release was published in the Unuudur Daily on 10 July.
MOROCCO: Le Soir on 11 July reported on UNFPA-supported activities for World Population Day.
MOZAMBIQUE: Radio Mocambique, TVM, STV, Lusa, and Angola Press reported on 11 and 12 July that the main commemoration of World Population Day in Mozambique was held in the district of Gongola, in the central province of Manica. All reports say that the event was led by UNFPA’s Representative, Bettina Maas, and Manica Governor, Ms. Ana Comoane. Ms. Maas is quoted by Lusa (Portuguese news agency) saying that there is a need (in Mozambique) to scale up reproductive health services, in particular family planning. “Everyone wishes to live in a world were delivering a baby is a sign of happiness for women, parents and family. We cannot continue living in a world were delivering a baby is a sign of uncertainty or something a family remembers sadly.” Read in Portugese: Noticias, and Portalangop
MYANMAR: The Myanmar Times on 9 July reported on a family planning conference convened in honor of World Population Day as part of a global push to improve access to family planning in developing countries. and the New Light of Myanmar on 12 July reported on World Population Day celebrations. UNFPA Representative Mohamed Abdel-Ahad is quoted saying, "By enabling young women to delay childbearing until they have achieved education and training, reproductive health services contribute toward improving women's social position and increasing their community and political participation."
The New Light of Myanmar on 12 July published an article on the commemorative ceremony held at Thingaha Hotel in honour of World Population Day. Mohamed Abdel Ahad, UNFPA representative spoke about UNFPA's activities in the country.
The New Light of Myanmar on 12 July published an article annoucing UNFPA is part of a coalition of organizations dedicated to improving maternal and child health globally and in Myanmar.
Mizzima on 11 July reported that the country will focus on women's health, family planning and contraceptives following a funding intiative by the UK’s development agency, the Department for International Development (DFID), Marie Stopes International, and UNFPA. A press briefing was organized in Naypyitaw to announce the commitment. Read in English: Mizzima
PARAGUAY: ABC Color on 7 July reported that on 10 July, to celebrate World Population Day, which this year has the theme "Universal access to reproductive health services," the initiative Presencia Joven, boys and girls working towards peer education, will organize an event in the Plaza de Armas. The event, also hosted by the NGO Kuna Roga, with support from UNFPA, will be held from 9:00 to 11:30 and 13:00 to 17:00. Read in Spanish: ABC Color
La Nación reported on 9 July that through theater, graffiti and various activities, adolescents and youth of the Presencia Joven will celebrate World Population Day. The event, held in the Plaza de Armas is driven by NGO Kuna Roga and has the support of UNFPA. Read in Spanish: La Nación
Radio Ñanduti on 13 July reported on the activity organized by Presencia Joven as part of the World Population Day in the city of Encarnación. The Advocacy and Communication Advisor for UNFPA Carolina Ravera, said on behalf of the Assistant Representative of this agency, Manuela Escobar, that "UNFPA would like to emphasize the theme before us today and really make everyone realize their right to information, services and supplies in sexual and reproductive health.” Read in Spanish: Radio Ñanduti
Portal Paraguayo de Noticias reported on 13 July that Sergio Gonzalez (16), a member of Presencia Joven, an organization of teens working in peer education and supported by UNFPA, organized a fun activity to celebrate World Population Day. Boys and girls were invited to come to the Plaza de Armas "so that together we reflect on our rights, especially when it comes to sexual and reproductive health.” Read more in Spanish: PPN
Itapúa en Noticias broadcast on 11 July, an interview with Sara González, a member of Presencia Joven, which, for World Population Day, organized with support from UNFPA, an event in the Plaza de Armas. During the day, adolescents, through activities such as games, theater and graffiti, shared information on sexual and reproductive health and promoting friendly health services in the city's hospital. Watch in Spanish: Itapúa en Noticias
PHILIPPINES: The Philippine Star on 13 July printed an editorial saying, “the theme of this year’s observance of World Population Day cannot be any more direct: “universal access to reproductive health care.” United Nations statistics show that every day around the world, nearly 800 women die of complications from pregnancy or childbirth. For every death, according to the UN Population Fund, 20 more women suffer debilitating childbirth injuries. UNFPA reported that in most developing countries, pregnancy and complications from childbirth are the leading causes of death of girls aged 10 to 19. The highest rates of sexually transmitted infections are recorded among youths aged 15 to 24 in developing countries, according to the UNFPA." Read in English: Philippine Star
The Inquirer on 12 July printed an opinion piece by Rina Jimenez-David. “In her statement issued on World Population Day last Wednesday, Senator Pia Cayetano appealed to everyone to “prioritize the plight and burden of Filipino mothers. They are the ones who risk their life to bear new life, carry the primary burden of ensuring the health, education and welfare of their children, and balance the family’s meager resources to survive from day to day.” Saying “the situation of our mothers has gone from bad to worse” with rising maternal death statistics, the senator said “any fair-minded legislator [should] support the enactment of the RH bill, which would allow mothers universal access to reproductive health services of the government.”” Read in English: The Inquirer
The Philippine Information Agency reported on 13 July that “the Department of Health (DOH) and the Commission on Population (PopCom) has pushed for universal access to Reproductive Health (RH) services and the utilization of family planning. RH problems remain as the leading cause of illnesses and death for women of childbearing age locally and globally. Maternal mortality rate in Cordillera based on the 2009 data, is 79 per 100,000 live births. PopCom, in partnership with DOH, spearheaded July 11’s Kapihan Media Forum in observance of the World Population Day 2012, which adopts the theme “Universal Access to Reproductive Health.”” Read in English: Philippine Information Agency
The Philippine Star on 11 July printed an editorial saying, “the World Bank has joined the International Monetary Fund and rating agencies in projecting an economic contraction this year for the Philippines. As the global economic crisis deepens, the United Nations is expecting women and children in developing countries to bear the brunt of the impact. The crisis gives more urgency to the implementation of measures that will promote education and health care for women and children. This is the message of the United Nations Population Fund as the 20th World Population Day is marked today. The UNFPA points out that investments in education and health of women and girls have been linked to higher national productivity, agricultural yield and income, all of which contribute to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals.” Read in English: Philippine Star
The Manila Bulletin on 10 July printed an editorial, “Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services” is the theme of this year’s celebration of World Population Day, in support of the attainment of the 5th Millennium Development Goal (MDG) which is to improve maternal health. Despite progress in this area, there is still much to be done to realize the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) vision of “a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.”” Read in English: Manila Bulletin
The Gulf Times on 12 July published that, “Jonalyn Corpuz struggled to hold on to her three-month-old son throwing a tantrum as she waited in line for free contraceptive implants in Manila’s slum district of Tondo. Corpuz was among hundreds of mothers who signed up for free implants and injections, ligation, birth control pills and other reproductive health services at a family planning fair in Baseco, the largest slum village in Tondo. The fair was organised by the Manila-based Likhaan Centre for Women’s Health in partnership with the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), the European Union and other local groups to mark World Population Day yesterday.” Read in English: Gulf Times
Negros Daily Bulletin on 12 July reported that, “Dr. Eden Divinagracia, Executive Director of the Philippine NGO Council on Population, Health and Welfare, Inc. (PNGOC) cited the recent statistics, that the unmet needs for Family Planning increased from 15.7% in 2006 to 19.3% in 2011 at the World Population Day event with the theme, Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services. The objective of the celebration was to raise awareness among stakeholders the importance of addressing population issues and their relationship to health and development.” Read in English: Negros Daily Bulletin
The Inquirer on 11 July reported that, “Senator Pia Cayetano on Wednesday renewed her call for the passing of the Reproductive Health Bill in time with the commemoration of World Population Day. “On World Population Day, let’s prioritize the plight and burden of Filipino mothers. They are the ones who risk their life to bear new life, carry the primary burden of ensuring the health, education and welfare of their children, and balance the family’s meager resources to survive from day-to-day,” said Cayetano.” Read in English: The Inquirer and InterAksyon.com
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SIERRA LEONE: AWOKO and New Vision reported on 12 July that at a press conference to commemorate World Population Day in Freetown on 11 July, the Acting Director of UNFPA sub-regional office in Dakar, Idrissa Ouedraogo, said that family planning is a basic human right. Giving birth, he said, is typically the most joyful moment in a woman’s life, yet this very process takes the life of so many women worldwide.
Mr. Ouedraogo further stated that for every woman who dies, around 20 more suffer debilitating childbirth conditions such as fistula, and that working for the survival and the well-being of women and girls is a human rights imperative. He said that as we commemorate World Population Day, it is time to re-energize our commitment to universal access to reproductive health services, especially voluntary family planning.
The Component Manager for Population and Development at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Mohamed Lebbie, observed that the theme for this year’s celebration: Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services, is clearly an important one and the timing is opportune particularly when government is now committed to formulating a comprehensive national population policy within socio-economic planning.
SRI LANKA: The Daily Mirror, Daily News, Sinhala 'Ada', Daily Lankadeepa Sinhala and Veerakesari Tamil on 11 July reported on World Population Day and UNFPA. The Daily Mirror did a three-page spread on the topic.
SUDAN: Sudan Vision Daily published on 12 July the message by Executive Director, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, on World Population Day 2012. In the message Dr. Osotimehin reaffirmed UNFPA’s human rights approach to reproductive health by affirming that working for the survival and well-being of women and girls is a human rights imperative. In order to take advantage of women’s full potential in the development of their nations, they must be able to plan their lives and families. This is why the international community is determined to making universal access to reproductive health a priority. Read in English: Sudan Vision Daily
Al Sahafa Daily reported on 10 July about the planned celebrations of World Population Day on 16 July at Genaina, West Darfur. The events are organized by the Reproductive Health Directorate of the Federal Ministry of Health, West Darfur Ministry of Health and UNFPA Sudan. Dr. Sawsan Eltahir of the Federal Ministry of Health was quoted as saying this year’s celebrations advocate for efforts to provide quality integrated reproductive health services that include midwifery, emergency maternal services in addition to information and services on spacing children. Read in Arabic: Al Sahafa Daily
TAJIKISTAN: Khovar reported on 13 July on the UNFPA-conducted press conference on World Population Day. Mr. Alexander Zuev, UNFPA Representative in Tajikistan spoke on the occasion. Read in Russian: Khovar
TIMOR-LESTE: The Timor-Post on 11 July reported that UNFPA celebrated World Population Day with government representatives, development partners, and students at Canossa School in Dili. UNFPA has been working the Ministry of Health and International Agencies in Timor-Leste for the past 10 years to strengthen education and capacity on reproductive health and progress is being made. This year’s global theme ‘Universal Access to Reproductive Health Services’ is of particular relevance to Timor-Leste, a country with a high fertility rate and a high maternal mortality ratio. A Timorese woman will have, on average, 5.7 births during her lifetime with one in 44 women likely to die as a result of complications during pregnancy or childbirth, according to the Demographic Health Survey 2009-2010. Through the celebration of World Population Day, UNFPA hopes to raise awareness among young people on key reproductive health issues, so they can make informed decisions concerning their health and their future. UNFPA Representative Pornchai Suchitta pledged UNFPA’s commitment to work with all of its partners to ensure that universal access to reproductive health, especially voluntary family planning, is a key element of the international development agenda and poverty reduction policies. Mr. Pornchai said that, “only then would countries be able to reduce poverty and social and economic inequality, improve the well-being of their people and safeguard the health and rights of women, men, and young people.”
The Independente on 12 July reported that the United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon called on United Nations member states to highlight the key role of access to reproductive health care. “I call for urgent concerted action by the member states to bridge the gap between demand and supply for reproductive health care,” said Ban. The paper also quoted the Executive Director of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, who stated that reproductive health problems remain the leading cause of ill health and death for women of childbearing age worldwide.
The Timor Post on 12 July published a photo of the First Lady of Timor-Leste, Mrs. Isabel Ferreira, ribbon cutting at the UNFPA exhibition on the celebration of World Population Day with UNFPA Representative Mr. Pornchai at Canossa Community School.
TOGO: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 and 12 July on the country’s World Population Day celebrations. The Minister in Charge of the Planning of Development and Regional Planning, Dédé Ahouéfa EKOUE, launched World Population Day on 10 July in the Medico-social Center of Tokoin Doumasséssé at Lome. She had by her side, the Ministers of Health, Security and Civil Protection, the representative of the Office of the UNFPA in Togo, Cécile MUKARUBUGA, the representatives of other agencies such as the United Nations’ representative Khardiata Lo Ndiaye, the resident Coordinator of the United Nations System and resident Representative of the UNDP in Togo, members of the diplomatic corps, high personalities in charge of the engineering departments and a crowd made up of women who came to listen.
The celebration was also an opportunity for the UNFPA Togo to offer five motorbikes to the medical districts of the maritime area through the Ministry of Health. In collaboration with the Management of Family Health, services for family planning were offered free on the site of the demonstration to surrounding populations. Parallel to the celebration, the media diffused and published the message of the Executive Director in their columns and on the airwaves.
A day before this celebration, a press conference, hosted by the Togolese Government and the Office of the UNFPA in Togo, enlightened journalists on World Population Day, the current efforts of the government regarding reproductive health, and the importance of demography and development. Read in French: Togo En Vogue, Togo En Vogue, Pa-L'Union, Pa-L'Union, Savoir News, Sante Education and Afriscoop
TURKMENISTAN: Neutral Turkmenistan reported on 11 July on the celebration by the international community of World Population Day. In the article, the author shared the history of World Population Day and extensively described the cooperation between Turkmenistan and UNFPA since 1992, particularly in the area of reproductive health, given the theme of the 2012 World Population Day. Quoting the Secretary-General’s World Population Day message on the importance of mainstreaming reproductive health and rights into all development plans, the article highlights the achievements of Turkmenistan in the area of reproductive health with the support of UNFPA, including the adoption, among the first in the region to do so, of national development programmes and strategies on reproductive health, safe motherhood and others.
Neutral Turkmenistan, Dashoguz Habarlary, and Maru-Shahu-Jahan newspapers reported on 12, 13 and 14 July that UNFPA jointly with the National Clinical Center for Mother and Child Health (NCCMC) held a series of roundtables dedicated to the World Population Day theme in the capital city and in two cities in the regions. The roundtables served as a platform to recognize the medical specialists working in the field of reproductive health, and to create a dialogue between the service providers and users on the existing reproductive health services, safe motherhood, adolescent reproductive health and reproductive rights of women, including those living with disabilities, and young people. Medical specialists, representatives of the non-governmental organizations and mass media, as well as couples, women of fertile age and young people participated at the round-tables.
UGANDA: New Vision on 11 July reported on a dialogue organized by the UNFPA country office in preparation for World Population Day. With the theme: “Make Access to Reproductive Health Services a Priority: Address Key Challenges,” the dialogue attracted youths from across Kampala city and beyond. Read in English: New Vision
New Vision on 11 July published an interview with UNFPA Country Representative Janet Jackson about World Population, family planning and other key issues affecting the population. Read in English: New Vision
The Daily Monitor on 12 July published an article about the London Family Planning Summit. UNFPA Country Representative Janet Jackson is mentioned in the article saying, making access to reproductive health services shoul dbe a priority. Read in English: Daily Monitor
URUGUAY: Several media outlets reported from 11-14 July on different aspects of the celebration of World Population Day. El País reported that Uruguayan authorities were to announce that the country would host the first meeting of the Regional Conference on Population in August 2013. That Conference would focus on the Programme of Action of the International Conference for Population and Development (ICPD) advancements. La diaria and Radio Uruguay highlighted that the Uruguayan model to eliminate maternal mortality for unsafe abortions, which follows the commitments signed in the ICPD, will be shared with other Latin American countries. La Republica focused on growing inequalities as the world population rises. Trends on sexual and reproductive health, including maternal mortality, were presented and debated by several media. Read more in Spanish: El País, La Diaria, La República, UNI Radio, Radio Uruguay, Radio Universal, Montevideo.com, Presidencia, Fray Bentina Digital, El Pueblo de Salto, El País de los Niños, Prensa Latina
UZBEKISTAN: UzDaily, Gazeta.uz and numerous other outlets reported on 12 July that on 11 July, the Women’s Committee of Uzbekistan and UNFPA (UN Population Fund) together celebrated World Population Day 2012. The day, which was held under the motto “Healthy Families – Healthy Societies,” was celebrated with an open-air event at Gofur Gulom Park in Tashkent. The celebration featured a family marathon, as well as a kids’ chalk drawing contest on the theme of “Healthy Families.” Winners and participants of the contest were awarded with souvenirs. Participants of the event and guests also enjoyed the performance of amateur folk dance and song groups. Read in Russian: UzDaily, Gazeta.uz, and ca-news Read in English: UzDaily
e-Tashkent reported on 12 July that on 13 July, the UN Information Centre (UNIC) and UN Population Fund (UNFPA) planned to co-host a traditional UN Friday to highlight one of UN’s flagship observances, World Population Day. The programme featured Feruza Fazilova, National Programme Officer on Reproductive Health at UNFPA, Diloram Melikova, family physician at Tashkent International Clinic, Davron Mirsagatov, and representative of the youth education network Y-PEER, Vojtech Hledik, UNAIDS Country Office in Uzbekistan. Read in Russian: e-Tashkent
GEORGIA: Continuous Coverage on Reproductive Health and Rights Seminar
Georgia Today reported on 28 June that the United Nations Population Fund in Georgia, in partnership with the all-party MDG Group at the Parliament of Georgia, the Healthcare and Social Issues Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, and Centre “Tanadgoma,” organized a seminar for the members and staffers of the Parliament of Georgia on reproductive health and rights.
Participants in the seminar were welcomed by Giorgi Tsereteli, Deputy Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, Rusudan Kervalishvili, Deputy Chairperson of the Parliament of Georgia and Chairperson of the Gender Equality Council at the Parliament of Georgia, Otar Toidze, Chairman of the Healthcare and Social Issues Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, and Tamar Khomasuridze, Assistant Representative UNFPA Country Office, Georgia. The participants discussed the sexual and reproductive health policy and the role of the Parliament of Georgia in advancing the reproductive health and rights of the population. The high-level officials underlined the importance and effectiveness of UNFPA’s support to Georgia.
The seminar was conducted within the framework of the UN Joint Programme “To Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia,” implemented by a close collaboration of the three UN agencies - United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Women’s Fund (UNWomen), and UNFPA through generous support of the Swedish International Agency for Development (Sida). Read in English: Georgia Today
GEORGIA: 2010 Reproductive Health Survey Final Report Disseminated
Multiple media outlets on 26 June reported on the Dissemination Conference of the 2010 Georgia Reproductive Health Survey Final Report which was organized by the UNFPA Georgia CO. The conference presented the survey final report to government officials, representatives of national and international organizations and experts. It also elaborated on relevant recommendations for further efforts in the field.
The press conference, preceding the event was attended by the First Lady of Georgia, Chairperson of the National Reproductive Health Council Mrs. Sandra Elisabeth Roelofs, the Vice Chairman of the Parliament Mr. George Tsereteli, Minister of Labour, Health and Social Affairs (MoLHSA) Mr. Zurab Tchiaberashvili, UNICEF Representative in Georgia Mr. Roeland Monasch, UNFPA/Georgia Assistant Representative Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, and Senior Health &Infectious Diseases Adviser, USAID Caucasus Ms. Tamar Sirbiladze.
The 2010 Women Reproductive Health Survey was the third nationally representative survey to collect demographic and reproductive health data at the national and regional level and to track demographic and reproductive health indicators progress over the last decade.
A third round population-based household probability survey of women of childbearing age was conducted in 2010 with the financial support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and with the technical support of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, Atlanta, USA). Similar to previous reproductive health surveys, MoLHSA and the National Centre for Disease Control and Public Health were the main national implementing partners. Read in English: Georgia Today and Inter Press News. Read in Georgian: Primetime News, News Georgia, Tribuna, GHN. Watch in Georgian: 1TV and MyVideo
GEORGIA: Reproductive Health and Rights Seminar at Parliament for Members and Staffers
Multiple media outlets reported on 21 June that the United Nations Population Fund in Georgia, in partnership with the all-party MDG Group, the Healthcare and Social Issues Committee, and Center “Tanadgoma”, organized a seminar for members and staffers of the Parliament of Georgia on the topic of “Reproductive Health and Rights.”
Participants in the seminar were welcomed by Deputy Chairman Mr. Giorgi Tsereteli, Deputy Chairperson, Ms. Rusudan Kervalishvili, Chairperson of the Gender Equality Council, Mr. Otar Toidze, Chairman of the Healthcare and Social Issues Committee, and UNFPA Assistant Representative Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze. The participants discussed the sexual and reproductive health policy and the role of the Parliament of Georgia in advancing the reproductive health and rights of the population. The high level officials underlined the importance and effectiveness of UNFPA’s support to Georgia. First Lady of Georgia and Chairperson of the National Reproductive Health Council, Mrs. Sandra Elisabeth Roelofs, highlighted the priorities in the area of reproductive health and shared her suggestions and recommendations concerning further improvements to be achieved in this field.
The seminar was conducted within the framework of the UN Joint Programme “To Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia,” implemented by a close collaboration of the three UN agencies - United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Women’s Fund (UN Women), and UNFPA - through the generous support of the Swedish International Agency for Development (Sida). Read in English: Inter Press News Read in Georgian: Pirweli Watch in Georgian: My Video and GurjaaniTV
GEORGIA: Addressing the elephant in the room
Georgia Today reported on 15 December that from December 1 till December 10 UNFPA Georgia Country Office, in partnership with the International Centre on Conflict and Negotiation (ICCN), Georgian Youth Development and Education Association (GYDEA) and the Caucasus Social Marketing Association (CSMA), organized the Youth Contest within the frames of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence and UNFPA global “7 Billion Actions” campaigns. During ten days - from December 1 till December 10 - every day a group of young people presented their flash mobs or performances in Tbilisi streets and created own articles, slogans, connected with gender- based violence and HIV/AIDS. The global theme for the 2011 campaign is From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence against Women! “Domestic violence, raping, militarism are the main reasons that are ruining lives of many woman,” said Gvantsa Kordzakhia, 21, one of the participators of the campaign.
The youth contest will finish on December 13, 2011 by the awarding ceremony of the contest winners. Read in English: Georgia Today
Georgia: The Award Ceremony for Winners of Youth “Elephant in the Room” Contest
Various media outlets reported that on 13 December, the United Nations Population Fund in Georgia held the award ceremony for the winners of the youth contest “Elephant in the Room,” at the gallery Kopala/Vernisazhi. Youth contest “Elephant in the Room” was held in partnership with the International Centre on Conflict and Negotiation (ICCN), Youth Development and Education Association (GYDEA) and the Caucasus Social Marketing Association (CSMA).
The contest was conducted within the framework of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence and UNFPA global “7 Billion Actions” campaigns. The name of the contest was related to the metaphor “Elephant in the Room” for an obvious problem that is being ignored or goes unaddressed. The contest aimed to raise awareness of the general public and most importantly the youth on important social issues, such as HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence and human rights that still remain challenges faced by Georgia in the world of 7 billion.
Read in English: InterPress News Watch in Georgian: My Video
GEORGIA: World AIDS Day
Interpressnews reported on 2 December that on 1 December UNFPA Georgia CO marked the World AIDS Day in Batumi by conducting an informational-educational outdoor activity. Within the frames of the event, peer educators conducted outdoor activities and disseminated IEC materials about HIV/AIDS prevention. Peer educators represent youth, who successfully completed training, organized by UNFPA. The training was conducted by UNFPA partner organizations – the Caucasus Social Marketing Association (CSMA) and Georgian Youth Development and Education Association (GYDEA), according to the international standards.
Every year, on 1 December, UNFPA Georgia CO marks World AIDS Day. Currently, a total of 3,057 HIV/AIDS cases are registered in Georgia. Young people are one of the most vulnerable groups with regard to HIV/AIDS. UNFPA places special priority on youth development and their health promotion. Read in English: Interpressnews