EGYPT: UNFPA Award Winners Announced
Al Ahram on 30 April reported that an academic institution affiliated with the Al-Azhar University in Egypt and a public health advocate from Uganda announced yesterday as winners of the 2013 United Nations Population Award. The award is given annually to individuals and institutions for outstanding work in population and in improving public health.
EGYPT: Population Award Presented
Al Ahram on 30 April reported that Ugandan Dr. Gotham Mussenguza received the 2013 United Nations Population Award. Read in Arabic: Al Ahram
EGYPT: First Ever Resolution to End FGM/C Drafted
Bikya Masr on 1 December reported that UN Member States approved the first-ever draft resolution aimed at ending female genital mutilation. Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) refers to several different harmful practices involving the cutting of the female genitals for non-medical reasons. The UN World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 140 million girls and women worldwide are currently living with the consequences of FGM. According to the UNFPA, some 8,000 communities across the globe have abandoned the practice.
EGYPT: UNFPA Supports Gynecologists FGM/C Statement
Multiple media outlets on 19 and 20 September reported on a press conference UNFPA organized to show support for the statement made by gynecologists on female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in Egypt. The conference was attended by the Prof. Doctor Ezzeldin Osma, Secretary General of the Egyptian Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Dr. Atef Elshitany, Secretary General of the National Population Council of Egypt (NPC); Mr. Philippe Duamelle, UNICEF Representative; and Dr. Magdy Khaled, UNFPA Assistant Representative Officer in Charge. Read in Arabic: Akhbarelyom, Alshaabalarby and Masress
GLOBAL: Continuing Coverage of World Population Day
BOTSWANA: The Botswana Gazette reported on 18 July that maternal health is a serious challenge for many women without access to sexual and reproductive health services the world over. Speaking during World Population Day, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative Aisha Camara-Drammeh said besides sexual and reproductive health being a critical part of sustainable development, it is a basic human right which every woman should have. She said worldwide, 222 million women who wish to delay pregnancy have no access to contraceptives. This unmet need for family planning contributes to 21 million unplanned births, 79,000 maternal deaths and 1.1 million infant deaths. She also said the challenges have resulted in almost 800 women dying globally during pregnancy or due to childbirth complications which could have otherwise been prevented, while around 20 more suffer long-lasting illnesses or disabilities also related to pregnancy. Furthermore, she revealed that every year, 19 million unsafe abortions occur in developing countries resulting in 47,000 deaths of the women involved. Accentuating the importance of reproductive health services with particular focus on improving maternal health, Assistant Minister of Health Gaotlhaetse Matlhabaphiri said Botswana had made strides in improving maternal health countrywide. He said associated indicators from the Botswana Family Health Survey, 2007 have shown the Ante Natal Care coverage and assisted delivery by skilled personnel to be at 94% and 95% respectively while the Contraceptive Prevalence Rate was at 52.8%. Read in English: Botswana Gazette
BURKINA FASO: Le pays on 16 July published an article on the celebration of World Population Day. The paper said that the acting Representative of UNFPA Pascal Karorero, who read the speeches of the Executive Director of UNFPA, affirmed its commitment to act with all partners to ensure universal access to reproductive health. The representative of the Minister of Economy and Finance, appealed to all political authorities, traditional and religious, with development partners, the private sector, civil society organizations and the entire population for a greater synergy of action for achieving "universal access to reproductive health services." Read in French: Le Pays
CHINA: Beijing News on 17 July reported on a UNFPA China sponsored, week-long peer educators’ training camp organized by China Family Planning Association (CFPA) and China Youth Network from 10-15 July. This was the first national peer educators training led by young people. Two trainers from Y-peer in Asia were invited to the training which had 60 participants from all over China. UNFPA China provided technical support to the workshop as one of its planned activities in the youth programme. Media were invited to cover the 2012 World Population Day Event with the theme of “Voices of Youth, Initiative of Cooperation” which kicked off the training. UNFPA prepared a press release with key messages focusing on youth issues. Beijing News, a popular and influential newspaper featured a photo story on 17 July, highlighting young people learning and talking about sexual and reproductive health issues which are normally not openly discussed in public. The report was picked up by many on-line media.
The article quoted UNFPA Representative Mr. Arie Hoekman, "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 also quoted. Read in Chinese: Beijing News, News 163 and News ca315
COSTA RICA: Different media reported from 11 to 17 July about an investigation carried out by UNFPA on the acceptability of the female condom, which was conducted in two districts of the country as part of the celebrations for World Population Day. “We gave female condoms to women in two counties, so they could use them for about three weeks, then we measured their level of satisfaction with the method, and indeed the results are very interesting because it shows that a large proportion of women (over 60%), were satisfied and are willing to use it again,” said Laura Sanchez, UNFPA’s specialist, who added that universal access to reproductive health services is a priority. The female condom is not available in Costa Rica. Listen in Spanish: Programa Nuestra Voz, Radio ADN, Radio Nacional Watch in Spanish: Entrevista Telenoticias, Canal 7, Canal 13, Canal 44, RTN Noticias, NC Once , Nota Telenoticias Read in Spanish: Diario Extra, Al Día, La Prensa Libre, La Nación, La Teja.
CUBA: Multiple media outlets reported between 16 and 22 July on UNFPA's World Population Day celebrations, dedicated to universal access to reproductive health. Jesus Robles, International Coordinator of the UNFPA Program in Cuba and Rolando Garcia, UNFPA Assistant Representative in Cuba were both mentioned in media. Read in Spanish: SEMlac Cuba and Granma Internacional
EGYPT: Multiple media outlets from 10-12 July reported on World Population Day in Egypt. These outlets included: The Egyptian Gazette, Watani, Almasry Alyoum, Al Hayat, Al Ahram, Al Youm 7, Al Watan, Al Mougaz, Al Ahram, Akher Sa3a, Egypt Independent, Middle East News Agency, Ahram Messay, Shorouk, Sada el Balad, Misr el Mahrousa, Masrawy, Al sha3b, Maktoob News and Akhbar al Youm. Over 20 articles were written and 5 TV interviews were recorded. UNFPA launched the documentary "The Tuk-Tuk Nurse-Midwife, Reducing Maternal Mortality in Upper-Egypt" to mark the occasion. UNFPA Director Dr. Magdy Khaled is quoted in several of the articles. Read in English: Egypt Independent, Al Ahram Read in Arabic: Al Youm and Watani
GUINEA-BISSAU: Nô Pintcha reported on 19 July on the celebration of World Population Day. Special focus was placed on the publication of data collected from the 2009 Population and Housing Census. The UN in Guinea-Bissau called on the government and the country’s decision makers to effectively utilize the data collected from the Census 2009 to make the most efficient investments to meet the needs and circumstances of the population and help lift people out of poverty. The Prime Minister, the UNFPA Representative and the UN System Coordinator, highlighted the importance of collecting data as a planning tool for development in their speeches.
JAMAICA: The Gleaner on 16 July reported that, Geetha Sethi, director at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), says protecting the rights of the nation's youth population is critical to the country's development. "One of immediate concern is the rights of the convention of the child, which states that all children should be able to live a life free of threats of violence or abuse of any kind," she said. Speaking at the World Population Day 2012 Symposium at Emancipation Park in St Andrew, Sethi said the young are the country's biggest asset and thus good health is a necessity. Read in English: The Gleaner
The Jamaica Observer reported on 18 July on the World Population Day Symposium organized by UNFPA and the Planning Institute of Jamaica to mark the day. The Symposium, which was held under the the theme: "Adolescent Reproductive Health, It's Your Right...Claim it with Responsibility!" featured edutainment, entertainment, giveaways, booth displays and panel discussions. Speaking on a panel, which looked at the history of reproductive health services in Jamaica, President of the Jamaica Family Planning Association, Sonia Ffolkes called for greater emphasis on the teaching of sex education in the school curriculum. She said it was incongrous that the age of consent is 16 "yet there is strong opposition from certain quarters from having sex education in schools." Read in English: Jamaica Observer
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Multiple media outlets on 18 July reported on World Population Day celebrations that took place with a special message “universal access to reproductive health services,” in both Ramallah and the Gaza Strip simultaneously.
In coordination with the National Population Committee of the Ministry of Planning and Administrative Development (MoPAD) and the Ministry of Health, with the cooperation of Ibn Sina Nursing College and Nursing and Midwifery Syndicate, Ramallah celebrations underlined the importance of the role of midwifery “….despite vagueness of this profession, calling for their training due to their affective role will convince the Palestinian society of its importance as a profession“ Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative, said.
In Gaza, Dr. Said Hammouz, Ministry of Health, commended the work UNFPA is implementing to promote the role of midwives through its continuous support to Ibn Sina College for Health Sciences, as well as the Ministry’s commitment in reaching the MDG 4 in reducing maternal deaths and access to reproductive health services. Read in Arabic: Al-quds, AL-AYYAM, Alhayat, Maan News, Wafa, PANET, PalShabab, Shasha, Al Watan Voice, PNN Arabic, Raya, Maan News, QudsNet, Amad, Alnahar News, Aswar Press, Ekhbaryat
In addition, to emphasize the role of midwives in Palestinian society and underline World Population Day's message, a billboard was placed at the Huwwara Checkpoint with a special message reading, "If a mother gives life, a midwife gives safe motherhood."
PARAGUAY: Prensa Indígena reported on 17 July that during the World Population Day event, organized by Presencia Joven, the Senior Advisor for Advocacy and Communication UNFPA said that to realize universal access to family planning services and progress towards MDG 5 is to work on a par with young people. She added that in Itapúa, 40% of the 300 pregnancies that occur every month are to adolescents. This is a reality that moves us and we are supporting various actions that are priorities for the country. Read more in Spanish: Prensa Indígena
SUDAN: El Genaina, on 16 July ran a news report on ongoing preparations for Sudan’s celebration of World Population Day. The Wali, Mr. Haidar Galucuma Ateem, and Mr. Bahar Idris Abu-Garda, the Federal Minister of Health, addressed the event which was organized by the State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Mr. Ahmed Is-haq Yagoub, the State Minister of Health, said the celebration aimed to highlight the issues and problems that affect the State residents, look into solutions through different means and create partnerships with relevant parties. The programme included a blood donation campaign to save the lives of mothers and children and a seminar for the leaders of different institutions on the issues related to maternal and new-born health.
El Genaina, on 17 July ran a news report on the World Population Day celebration that took place in El Genaina. Mr. Bahar Idris Abu-Garda, Federal Minister of Health, along with Mr. Haidar Galucuma Ateem, Wali of West Darfur, a number of government officials and UN agencies, INGOs and NGOs representatives, witnessed the celebration organized by the State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) under the theme; “Integration of reproductive health services .. guarantee to build a happy family.” Addressing the ceremony, Mr. Abu-Garda stressed the importance of the participation of the community to raise awareness on the issues related to reproductive health and reaffirmed the readiness of his ministry to provide integrated health services and supporting training programs for health cadres in order to play their role properly among the community. He stated that the efforts being exerted by the Ministry of health have contributed to the reduction of maternal mortality [in Sudan].
Al Sahafa on 17 July ran a report on Sudan’s World Population Day celebration. Federal Minster of Health, Bahar Idris Abu Garda addressed Sudan’s celebration of World Population Day asserting that reproductive health is a main component of primary health care. He highlighted that improving reproductive health services requires training of health cadres, awareness-raising among women and families in addition to having in place effective referral mechanisms to save both mother and new-born lives. Dr. Anas Jabir Babiker addressed the event on behalf of Pamela Delargy, UNFPA Representative to Sudan. Dr. Babiker said official statistics show 28% of Sudanese women would like to space their children but have no access to information and services which necessitates more efforts by partners to make these services available. He further asserted that integrated and emergency reproductive health service during pregnancy and at birth and voluntary child spacing will enable Sudanese women to better contribute to the development of the country. Read in Arabic: Al Sahafa
Sudan Vision on 19 July published half-a-page report on Sudan’s celebration of World Population Day. Celebrations for World Population Day kicked off in the West Darfur capital, El Genaina. The event was organized by the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with the state Ministry of Health and the United Nations Population Fund. Federal Minister of Health, Bahar Idris Abu Garda, was quoted as saying the Ministry continues to promote family planning which does not mean determining the number of children but rather means spacing their birth. He invoked different community sectors to raise awareness about the dangers of successive births especially for girls under 18 years of age. The celebration included a blood donation campaign and a seminar for leaders under the theme of “Population is the basis for development .. Let’s improve Reproductive Health Services” Reproductive health concepts, indicators and programs were discussed and participants came out with a set of recommendations. Read in English: Sudan Vision
YEMEN: 14 October on 18 July published a one-page report reflecting on the theme of World Population Day and the role of UNFPA in this regard. The report discussed reproductive health (RH) issues and its connection with UNFPA’s vision and strategies. The report quoted UNFPA many times when talking about RH issues such as unmet needs, abortion and family planning methods. Read in Arabic: 14 October, 14 October
AL-Thawarah reported on 18 July on the celebration of World Population Day and quoted the UNFPA Representative's speech. In the same page there was another article which was on reproductive health and it mentioned UNFPA’s theme for World Population Day “improved access to reproductive health services.”
GLOBAL: COVERAGE ON RELEASE OF STATE OF WORLD POPULATION 2011 REPORT
ARGENTINA: Multiple media outlets reported on 26, 27 and 28 October on the State of World Population 2011. Some of them analyzed the trends and population dynamics that define a world of 7 billion people. Most of the articles highlighted Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin’s statements in which he remarked that the milestone today reminds us that we must act immediately, because we also are 7 billion of opportunities. Read in Spanish: Diario Clarín, La Nación; Página 12; TELAM Noticias; La Capital de Rosario; El Ciudadano Santa Fe; La Opinion de Santa Fe; La Voz de Córdoba; La Gaceta de Tucumán; La Nueva Rioja; Misiones4.com; Los Andes de Mendoza; Rio Negro.com.ar; Diario Jornada de Trelew; Punto Aparte San Luis; La Nueva Provincia Bs As; TERRA Argentina; Sitio Andino; El país 24; Urgente24; TELAM Audiovisual
Multiple radio programs from 27 to 31 October discussed the State of World Population 2011 report including Radio Ciudad AM 1110, Radio Mitre AM 790, Radio America AM 1190 and Radio Belgrano AM 950.
AUSTRALIA: Radio Australia on 26 October interviewed Dirk Jenna, the Director of the United Nation's Population Funds' Pacific Sub-Regional Office in Fiji on the implications of the 7 billion milestones on migration as an important aspect of economic development for Pacific Island Countries and how urban drift in the Pacific places a strain on services. Read/Listen in English: Radio Australia
BANGLADESH: Multiple media outlets including The New Today, The Bangladesh Today and The Daily Star on 27 October reported on the release of the State of World Population report which estimates the country's population at 150.5 million.
BOLIVIA: Multiple media outlets and web information services reported on the launching of UNFPA’s SWOP in Bolivia. Media highlighted subjects such as youth, life expectancy, gender equality and environmental and economic impacts. Read in Spanish: Correo del Sur, El Cambio, El Deber, Erbol, Erbol, Erbol, La Patria, La Prensa, La Razón, La Razón, Los Tiempos
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA: Multiple media outlets reported on 26 and 27 October about the official launch of the State of World Population 2011 report. The stories focused on the current state of the world’s population and future actions we need to take to create a better future for all. Media placed focus on youth by quoting Dr. Osotimehin “Young people hold the key to the future, with the potential to transform the global political landscape and to propel economies through their creativity and capacities for innovation.” In addition to print media, Al-Jazeera Balkans and TV Sarajevo interviewed Mr. Faris Hadrovic, UNFPA assistant representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he further explained the meaning of the SWOP2011 report and the situation in the world and Bosnia and Herzegovina. He warned that the fertility rate for Bosnia and Herzegovina presents a big problem for the country’s future. Read in Bosnian: Sarajevo-x.com, RadioSarajevo.ba
BRAZIL: Diário de S.Paulo reported on 29 October that the birth of the seven billionth person will not be an impediment to achieving a better quality of life on the planet, if some actions are taken, such as the empowerment of women, according to the State of World Population 2011 report. Published by the United Nations Population Fund, the report states that women are a key asset to avoiding a population explosion in the coming years. Better educated women can have a crucial role in family planning, and, because they live longer, they will also play a fundamental role on caring for the elderly, whose numbers have been increasing worldwide. UNFPA Assistant Representative in Brazil Tais Santos is quoted as saying that population ageing is a new subject in Brazil, where a bill to protect elderly rights has recently passed in Congress, but “there is still much to do.” Read in Portuguese: Diário de S.Paulo
Correio Braziliense, Diário de Natal and several other media outlets reported on 27 October onwards that on 31 October, possibly somewhere in India, a very symbolic citizen will be born. He or she will probably not know, but will carry the title of Earth’s inhabitant number 7 billion. In a world increasingly crowded, it is necessary to create a more sustainable pattern of development, states the State of World Population 2011 Report: People and possibilities in a world with 7 billion, released yesterday by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The UNFPA Representative in Brazil, Harold Robinson, is quoted saying that "the 7 billion milestone appears as a double challenge as it presents numerous opportunities for development, but can also deepen inequalities that currently exist between countries". Read in Portuguese: Correio Braziliense, Diário de Natal, Ariquemes Online, Circuito Mato Grosso
O Estado de S.Paulo and several outlets reported on 27 October that the population of 7 billion brings 'formidable challenges' to the world in general and Brazil in particular such as reducing inequality, increasing access to education and health and ensuring sustainable growth; life conditions improved, but there are still large disparities between regions and countries, and ethnic and gender discrimination. These are the main findings of the report People and Possibilities in a World of 7 billion, released yesterday by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). According to the report, the world population is still increasing at an accelerating rate, but the current trend is the growth rate to reduce. The report also shows that the world population has never been so young and so old at the same time. Out of the 7 billion people, 43% (3.01 billion) are under 25. Meanwhile, people who are over 60 years, who were 384 million in 1990, now are 893 million and are expected to reach 2.4 billion by 2050. Read in Portuguese: O Estado de S.Paulo, Maranhao em Alerta, SIM News, R7, Nova FM 103 Radio Online
Folha de S.Paulo and several outlets reported on 27 October that five days before the world population reaches 7 billion, the United Nations Population Fund released a report demanding greater efforts by governments to ensure populations in developing countries the right to family planning. "When the right of access to family planning is respected, people, free from any coercion from governments, naturally evolve to stable fertility rates on their own choices, resulting in more affluent societies," said Harold Robinson, UNFPA Representative in Brazil, during the launching of the State of World Population 2011 at the Federal University of Minas Gerais. Read in Portuguese: Folha S.Paulo, Observatorio de Genero
Multiple media outlets reported on 26 October that UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund launched the State of World Population 2011 report, entitled “People and possibilities in a world of 7 billion.” UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin and UNFPA Representative Harold Robinson are quoted in several pieces. Read in Portuguese: Ecoagencia, Educa, O Globo, G1, Interativa FM Radio Online, Extra, Extra, BOL, A Verdade, RD Noticias and Jornal da Cidade.Net
CAMBODIA: Voice of Democracy (VOD) Radio reported on 27 October that a population of 7 billion would bring more challenges. The UNFPA in Cambodia warned that developing countries like Cambodia are facing greater challenges such as employment, environment, and health issues as the world hits 7 billion on 31 October. UNFPA Representative in Cambodia Derveeuw Marc noted at the launch of the SWoP report yesterday that population growth is high in poor or developing countries. He warned that this growth has implications on the environment such as climate change, lack of health care, if they are poor, and the movement of unskilled migrants seeking employment.
Bayon and Apsara Televisions reported on 27 October that H.E. Mrs. Men Sam An, Deputy Prime Minister attended the launch of the State of World Population Report 2011 of the United Nations Population Fund under the theme “The world at 7 billion.” The report highlights a challenge facing the world now and ahead as the population reaches 7 billion in 5 days. Dr. Derveeuw Marc, UNFPA representative in Cambodia noted that the report looks at implications of population growth such as poverty, access to health services, environment, young people and ageing issues.” He added that this report alerts and calls for actions from everyone to address population issues.
CAMEROON: Cameroon Tribune reported on 27 October that the 2011 State of the World Population report was launched by UNFPA and the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT) with emphasis on the achievements, setbacks and paradoxes of a population of seven billion people. While presenting the report, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System Michel Balima said that "we have to ensure equitable distribution of the resources available amongst all sectors in the society". Read in English: Cameroon Tribune
COLOMBIA: El Tiempo, Semana, El Colombiano and El Universal reported the launch of the State of World Population in London on 26 October. All media published the statements of UNFPA Executive Director, Babatunde Osotimehin, and revealed the “achievements and challenges” this new milestone represents for humanity. Read in Spanish: El Tiempo, El Tiempo, Semana, Semana, El Colombiano and El Universal
El Tiempo reported on 29 October, the information shared by Tania Patriota, UNFPA Representative in Colombia, on the launch of State of World Population, held 28 October at Externado University. “That we can or can´t live together on a healthy planet depends on decisions we make today. With a growing population, we need to be supportive”. Read in Spanish: El Tiempo
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): DRTV, Top TV, Canal Benedictions, Radio-Congo, and Congo-site reported on 27 October on UNFPA’s SWOP launch in Brazzaville by UNFPA Representative David Lawson, in the presence of State Economy Minister Pierre Moussa, as well as the Youth Minister, Health Minister, Small and Middle Enterprises Minister, Vice Economy Minister, parliamentarians, ambassadors, UN agency heads, civil society leaders and the media in the context of the 7 billion people on earth. Read in French: Congo-site Read in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Congo-site reported on 27 October on a statement by UNFPA in its 2011 State of the World Population report inviting UN Member States to invest more in youth, in the context of a world at seven billion people, as youth represent the largest segment of the world population and will ensure the world's future economic and social progress. Read in French: Congo-site
CUBA: CubaAhora and Trabajadores reported between 24 and 30 October on the 7 billion milestone and the importance of the State of World Population 2011, detailing some of the most important statistics. Read in Spanish: CubaAhora, Trabajadores and Trabajadores
EGYPT: The Daily News Egypt reported on 26 October on the launch of UNFPA's SWOP report at the Arab League. The piece highlighted that the report found that additional investments in youth and reinforcing equality between the sexes is essential to the world's future. Read in English: Daily News Egypt
ETHIOPIA: Multiple media outlets from 26 October on covered the release of the State of World Population 2011 report including the Ethiopian Radio and Television Agency, Fana Broadcasting Corporate, Voice of America, The Sub-Saharan Informer, Capital, Addis Admas, and The Daily Monitor. Read in English: AFRO 15.3 FM, The Ethiopian News Agency, and Walta Info
FIJI: Science Media Centre on 28 October reported the launch of the State of World Population 2011: People and Possibilities in a World of 7 billion. Dirk Jena, the Fiji-based Pacific director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) was in New Zealand to address the cross-party New Zealand Parliamentarians’ Group on Population and Development as well as Government agencies. Read in English: Science Media Centre
GABON: Gabon-Matin and l'Union reported on 27 October on the launch of UNFPA’s 2011 State of the World Population report in the rural city of Oyem, by UNDP/UNFPA Representative Nadir Hadj Hammou with local authorities. The event underlined the need for the world at 7 billion to commit to protecting the planet Earth for future generations. The UNDP/UNFPA Representative said “We must invest in youth, cities and agriculture to foster future economic growth." The event ended with a voluntary HIV testing and counselling.
GEORGIA: Georgia Today and Interpressnews reported on 26 October that UNFPA Georgia CO launched the State of World Population 2011 report “People and Possibilities in the World of 7 Billion.” Through personal stories, this report sheds light on the real-life challenges we face in our world of 7 billion. The report explores some of the challenges and opportunities from the perspective of individuals and describes the obstacles they confront— and overcome—in trying to build better lives for themselves, their families, communities and nations. Read in English: Georgia Today and InterPressNews
GUATEMALA: CERIGUA on 28 October reported that humanity reproduced at a rate of 9,000,513 people per minute worldwide. Though the fertility rate has declined in recent years, the main challenges are in the redistribution of wealth, equal access to natural resources and increased participation of women and youth in all areas, according to the SWOP report prepared by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Read in Spanish: CERIGUA
CERIGUA on 28 October reported that the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has given awards to 10 leaders nationwide who have made significant contributions for the people, including former indigenous Mayor Julajuj Dominga Vasquez, current regional delegate of Defence of Indigenous Women (DEMI), at the National Palace of Culture, during the launch of the State of World Population 2011 report. Read in Spanish: CERIGUA
CERIGUA on 27 October quoted Leonor Calderón, representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Guatemala, who said that it is necessary to rethink new ways of producing and distributing wealth in the world. Read in Spanish: CERIGUA
Unidas on 27 October reported on the release of a report by the United Nations Population Fund. UNFPA Rep. Leonor Calderón called on public officials to reflect on the excessive increase in population and inequality worldwide, and urged leaders to take immediate action on the issue. Listen in Spanish: Emisoras Unidas
El Periódico on 27 October reported on the release of the international report "State of World Population" and emphasized the great challenges that await Guatemala in this century. "How we have such large numbers? How many people can sustain our Earth? These are important questions, but perhaps not the right ones” according to the State of World Population 2011, which was presented yesterday. Read in Spanish: El Periódico
Reportaje De on 27 October reported that as part of a global launch, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) presented the report State of World Population 2011. Read in Spanish: Reportaje De
CINU on 26 October reported that the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has submitted the report of the State of World Population 2011, under the title "7 billion people, your world, your possibilities," referring to the overall population figure that will be reached on 31 October. Read in Spanish: CINU
INDONESIA: World Population at Seven Billion Campaign
Kompas.com reported on 30 October a story about youth and the World at 7 Billion Campaign held by UNFPA Indonesia. The campaign aimed to raise awareness amongst the wider public, especially young people, about the opportunities, challenges and action needed as the world population reaches 7 billion at the end of the month. Read in Indonesian: Kompas.com
INDONESIA: The Jakarta Post reported on 27 October on the release of the State of World Population report in Jakarta that was opened by the Coordinating Minister of Social Welfare, Dr. Agung Laksono. The article focused on urbanization issues, especially in the Indonesian context, drawn from the seminar that followed the launch. Other key issues discussed in the SWOP report that related to the world at 7 billion were also discussed in the article.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representative in Indonesia Jose Ferraris said on Wednesday that as the world’s population was approaching 7 billion, more people were presently living in cities. Therefore, improving the quality of life of people living in urban areas, some of whom were living in informal settlements and slums, would be an unavoidable need.
“This is really a big challenge,” said Ferraris at the launch of The State of World Population (SWOP) 2011, an annual population report released by the UNFPA. The report launch aimed to commemorate a global milestone billed as “The World at 7 Billion”, which will fall on 31 October. Read in English: The Jakarta Post
Media Indonesia, Suara Pembaruan, Voice of Indonesia radio and other national news outlets reported on the State of World Population report release.
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN: IRNA reported on 27 October on the State of World Population 2011 report and the implications in a world of 7 billion. The piece heavily quotes UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin who stated that, "Young people hold the key to the future, with the potential to transform the global political landscape and to propel economies through their creativity and capacities for innovation. But the opportunity to realize youth’s great potential must be seized now." Read in English: IRNA
JORDAN: AlRai, Addustour and Al-Arab Al-Yawm reported on 26 October and Jordan Times on 27 October that UNFPA has launched its 2011 World Population Report, entitled “People and Possibilities in a World of 7 Billion.” The media outlets also gave a brief on the report, its chapters and the countries it is focusing on, in addition to quotes from the Executive director’s statements. Read in Arabic: AlRai, Addustour, Al-Arab Al-Yawm and Jordan Times
LEBANON: Several media outlets reported on 26 and 30 October on the launch of the 2011 State of World Population. The articles provide an overview of the seven messages of the report, as well as global trends and population counts in some countries. The articles mention the 7 Billion Campaign accompanying the launch of the report. Read in Arabic: Al Diyar, Al Sharq El Awsat, Al Balad and Al Moustaqbal
LIBERIA: The News reported on 27 October that the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) released the State of World Population 2011 report stating that the population would reach seven billion on 31 October. Read in English: The News
The Probe reported on 27 October that “the State of the World Population released by the UNFPA which projects the world population to hit the seven billion mark by 31 October places Liberia among countries in sub-Saharan Africa with the high adolescent birth rates”. Read in English: The Probe
West Africa Democracy Radio reported on 27 October that “the State of the World Population released by the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) indicates that Liberia remains among countries with the highest maternal mortality rates, with 990 deaths from every hundred thousand live births”. Read in English: West Africa Democracy Radio
MALAWI: Africa News reported on 28 October that as the world's population is set to shoot to seven billion by 31 October, poor nations, like Malawi, will be negatively affected economically.
Launching the State of the World Population 2011 report themed, “People and Possibilities in a World of 7 billion” in Lilongwe, the country’s UNFPA deputy representative Gift Malunga said it is a challenge because the current pace of population growth increases the demand for natural resources and puts increased pressure on the planet. “Most of this growth is occurring in less developed countries like Malawi. Gaps between rich and poor are growing. While Malawi has made tremendous progress in food security due to sustained maize production following the implementation of the agriculture Farm Subsidy Input Programme introduced in 2005, a number of people remain vulnerable to other challenges like water shortages and climate-related disasters. ’’
“On the other hand, the 7 billion population provides an opportunity to work together in developing our continent. In this regard each country has a role to play capacitating its citizens with the right education, skills and healthy lives. Otherwise, the growing population will be a burden than a resource,” said Malunga. Read in English: Africa News
The Nation reported on 28 October that UNFPA and the government of Malawi launched the 2011 State of the World Population Report which indicates that the world population will reach the seven billion mark on 31 October 31.
Speaking at the launch, UNFPA Malawi Deputy Representative Gift Malunga said the seven billion milestone will be marked by achievements, setbacks and paradoxes, and also presents a challenge, an opportunity and a call to action.
Malunga said one of the challenges is the rapid growth of the population which, she said, is exerting pressure on resources and the entire planet. She observed that most of this growth is occurring in less developed countries such as Malawi where the gaps between the rich and the poor are also growing.
Malawi’s Finance and Development Planning Minister Ken Lipenga said at the launch event that while Malawi government encourages few children per family, it would not force people to have only two children as per current campaign. Read in English: The Nation
MEXICO: A.M., La Crónica, Diario de México,El Economista,Excelsior, El Sol de México, El Universal, La Jornada, Milenio, Once TV,Proceso, Publimetro, Punto Crítico, Radio Fórmula, and Reforma reported from 25 to 31 October that the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched the State of World Population 2011 entitled “People and possibilities in a world of 7 billion,” which shows that the challenges ahead are formidable. Mr. Diego Palacios Jaramillo, UNFPA Mexico Representative mentioned during a press conference that the report contains snapshots from nine countries, including Mexico, where ordinary people, national demographic experts, and policymakers talked about the challenges they face and how they are confronting them. Read in Spanish: A.M., La Crónica, Diario de México,El Economista,Excelsior, Excelsior, Excelsior, El Sol de México, El Sol de México, El Sol de México, El Universal, La Jornada, La Jornada, La Jornada, La Jornada, La Jornada, La Jornada, Milenio, Milenio, Milenio, Milenio, Milenio, Milenio, Once TV, Proceso, Publimetro, Punto Crítico, Radio Fórmula, and Reforma
MOLDOVA: Info-Prim Neo reported on 26 October on the launch of the State of the World Population report at the Balti-based state university Alecu Russo. The report was presented by UNFPA Assistant Representative in Moldova Boris Gilca. Mr. Gilca spoke about the various activities, organized by UNFPA Moldova, around the occasion of the Day of 7 Billion including a nationally broadcast video themed, "Let's Help Moldova Grow!"
Various media outlets including the news agencies Info-Prim Neo and esp.md, as well as the newspaper Ziarul de Garda reported on 26 October, about the public launch of the State of World Population 2011 report worldwide. In Moldova the report was launched in Balti, the so-called north capital of the country, at the UN Documentation Center within the State University “Aleco Russo.” The report was presented by Boris Gilca, UNFPA Assistant Representative in Moldova, who mentioned that unlike the world situation of 7 billion, in Moldova, on the contrary, the population is decreasing continuously, one of the main causes of this phenomenon being the low fertility rate. This is a result of various processes, among them the increase of the average marriage age, the delay of childbirth, the increase of the mothers’ age at the first childbirth, fewer children in young families, the increase of the photogenes period, uncontrolled migration phenomenon etc. As a result the country is facing a massive process of population ageing.
Also, Boris Gilca mentioned about special anniversary certificates from UNFPA, that will be handed to all babies born in Moldova on 31 October, as part of activities organized to celebrate the 7 billion event. Read in Romanian: Info-Prim Neo and Ziarul de Garda Read in English: Info-Prim Read in Russian: esp.md
MOZAMBIQUE: TIM, TVM, Rádio Moçambique, RTP-Africa and RDP-Africa reported on 27 October, that the world population will reach 7 billion by the end of the month. All stories mentioned that the new UNFPA world population report discusses the challenges and opportunities of living in a world of 7 billion. RTP quoted Patricia Guzman, UNFPA representative in Mozambique, saying that in order to build a better world for all, it’s necessary to invest in youth education and health, and reduce inequalities between men and women. Guzman, who was interviewed during the launch of the SWOP, also told RTP-Africa that the report had a particular focus on Mozambique, as it featured stories about UNFPA-related interventions in the country. RDP-Africa noted that according to the report, in the community of Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa, Guinea - Bissau, Angola and Mozambique register higher under five mortality rates.
NAMIBIA: MySinchew.com on 28 October reported on the launch on the State of World Population report. UNFPA Country Representative Fabian Byomuhangi gave the announcement launching the report. Read in English: MySinchew.com
NEW ZEALAND: Radio New Zealand on 28 October interviewed Dirk Jenna, the Director of the United Nation's Population Funds' Pacific Sub-Regional Office in Fiji on the emphasis on the rights of women and the need for increased investment in young people - labeled the “new global power” by the State of World Population 2011: People and Possibilities in a World of 7 billion. Listen in English: Radio New Zealand
NICARAGUA: La Prensa on 27 October reported on the SWOP release. “It’s not a question of space, but of equal opportunity and social justice,” said Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA in the presentation of the “State of World Population 2011.” Read in Spanish: La Prensa
PARAGUAY: Multiple media outlets reported on 26-27 October about the State of World Population 2011 report, which analyzes trends and dynamics that define a world of 7 billion people. Also published were the declarations of Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA, who remarked that the milestone reminds us that we must act immediately. Read in Spanish: Radio Ñanduti – Portal digital, Neike – Periodismo Digital Paraguayo, La Nación Digital, Portal Paraguayo de Noticias, ABC Color Digital, Viva Paraguay, Radio Viva, 5 días, La Nación - edición impresa
Última Hora reported on 28 October that the milestone of 7 billion people, which officially will be reached on 31 October, "is a challenge and a call to action (...) reminds us that we must act now," said Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in London at the presentation of The State of World Population 2011. Read in Spanish: Diario Última Hora, edición impresa
ABC Color on 20 October reported that the milestone of 7,000 million, which officially will be reached on 31 October, "is a challenge and a call to action (...) reminds us that we must act now," according to Babatunde Osotimehin, executive director of the Population Fund (UNFPA) at the presentation in London of The State of World Population 2011. Read in Spanish: ABC Color, edición impresa.
PHILIPPINES: The Inquirer on 27 October reported that the good news about the world population reaching 7 billion is that the average life expectancy has soared to 68, infant mortality has dropped to 46 per 1,000, and the average number of children in a family has plunged by more than half at 2.5. The bad news: Carbon emissions are expected to rise and the gap between the rich and the poor will continue to grow with more people migrating to the cities from the rural areas, among other challenges. This was the report released by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Wednesday, launching the five-day countdown to a “global population milestone” of 7 billion estimated to hit by October 31. Read in English: Inquirer
The Philippine Star on 27 October reported that the world population will reach seven billion by Oct. 31 with the Philippines being the 12th most populous country, a report of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFA) showed. At the launch of the “2011 State of the World Population Report” yesterday, UNFA Representative Ugochi Daniels said that while women worldwide are having fewer children, global population continues to rise, partly because of higher life expectancy. “While our world of seven billion presents a complex picture of trends and paradoxes, there are some essential global truths we observe. Conversely, there is no one global population outlook,” Daniels said. Read in English: Philippine Star
Business World on 26 October reported that the United Nations has presented ways by which countries can address poverty issues in the face of a steadily increasing population that is projected by demographers to reach seven billion by the end of this month. “The issue of population is a critical one for our humanity and for the Earth. But let us be clear: It is not a matter of space. The population question is one of human equity and opportunity,” Ugochi Daniels, Population Fund (UNFPA) representative to the Philippines, said at yesterday’s launch of “The State of the World Population 2011” report. The report basically states that while the fast growth of the global population means more children survive and people live longer, this presents challenges such as lack of employment opportunities, gender inequality, dwindling resources and environmental degradation. Read in English: Business World
InterAksyon reported on 26 October that empowering women and girls remains a crucial factor in poverty alleviation as world population turns 7 billion by the end of October, according to the State of the World Population released by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Tuesday. Another billion people are estimated to add up to the world population in 14 years. The SWPR, an annual report by the UNFPA, looks at the world’s demographics and studies its implications in the quality of life-economy, environmental condition, health, and other factors affecting the global population. Almost half of the world’ people or 43 percent, is under 25. In the Philippines, 54 percent of the population falls on this age group. Read in English: InterAksyon
Manila Bulletin on 26 October reported that the world’s population now stands at seven billion, and Asia remains home to 60 percent of the world’s people, the 2011 State of the World Population report by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) revealed Wednesday. The report retains the Philippines as the 12th most populous country in the world with 94.9-million people while China continues to be the most populous nation at 1.35 billion, followed by India at 1.24 billion. UNFPA projects that the global figure of seven billion will take place at the end of October. Read in English: Manila Bulletin
SOUTH AFRICA: The Mail & Guardian reported on 26 October on the release of the UNFPA's SWOP report in Cape Town. Read in English: Mail & Guardian
City Press on 26 October published a listing of facts from UNFPA’s State of World Population 2011 report. Read in English: City Press
SPAIN: El Mundo in October 2011 created a special report on 7 Billion and featured SWOP information. Read and View in Spanish: El Mundo
TUNISIA: Assabah reported on 26 October the presentation of The State of World Population 2011.
UGANDA: NTV Uganda on 26 October highlighted the country's the growing numbers and featured UNFPA's Assistant Representative Dr. Wilfred Ochan explaining we need to “invest in people.” Watch in English: NTV Uganda
New Vision on 26 October focused on population growth and mentioned the launch of SWOP report. Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin was quoted saying, "Our record population size can be viewed in many ways as a success for humanity: People are living longer, healthier lives. But not everyone has benefited from this achievement or the higher quality of life that this implies." Read in English: New Vision
The Monitor on 29 October extensively quoted UNFPA’s data on the 7 billion and dedicated a large part of the article on an interview with the Assistant Representative of the UNFPA in Uganda, Dr. Wilfred Ochan, who said the organisation intends to follow up with the government on the report’s findings. Read in English: The Monitor
The Monitor on 29 October featured an articled entitled “UN: World can “thrive” as population hits 7 billion” stating that “with planning and the right investments in people now ... our world of 7 billion can have thriving, sustainable cities, productive labour forces that can fuel economic growth, youth populations that contribute to the well-being of economies and societies, and a generation of older people who are healthy and actively engaged in the social and economic affairs of their communities, UNFPA said in a new report.” The article continues to summarize the report.
The East African Business Week highlighted SWOP on 30 October making the report its front page and editorial page. UNFPA and Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin were quoted. “With planning and the right investments in people now – to empower them to make choices that are not only good for themselves, but also for our global commons – our world of 7 billion can have thriving sustainable cities, productive labour forces that fuel economies, and youth populations that contribute to the well-being of their societies” he said. Read in English: East African Business Week
UNITED KINGDOM: MSN reported on 30 October on the release of the State of World Population report and its prediction that the poorest regions of the world will be worst hit as the population hits seven billion. Read in English: MSN
The Daily Monitor on 27 October mention the launch of the SWOP report alongside Uganda's 2011 State of Population Report. Read in English: Daily Monitor
URUGUAY: Several media outlets reported on 27 to 29 October that UNFPA has presented the State of World Population 2011 analyzing population and demographic trends in several countries. These articles cited Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin on the need to address inequality and investing in youth people. Read more in Spanish: El País, El Telégrafo, El Diario, La República and 180.com.
VIET NAM: Multiple media outlets reported on 27-28 October that the world population is projected to reach 7 billion on 31 October. How we respond now will determine whether we have a healthy, sustainable and prosperous future or one that is marked by inequalities, environmental decline and economic setbacks, according to The State of World Population 2011 report, published today by UNFPA.
The 7 billion milestones is a challenge, it is also an opportunity and a call for action. In Viet Nam, the population growth rate has decreased significantly from 1.7 percent between 1989 and 1999 to 1.2 percent between 1999 and 2009. Although Viet Nam’s fertility rate has already fallen below the replacement level, the population will still increase by an estimated 9 million people over the next ten years due to population momentum created from past decades of high fertility. At the same time, as a result of sharp reductions in fertility and mortality and increased life expectancy, the size of the elderly population is also increasing. The profile of poverty is also changing. “While poverty rates have consistently fallen below 14 percent, poverty reduction among certain vulnerable groups, such as ethnic minorities, including women and girls, has been much slower. To reduce inequities and improve living standards today – as well as for generations to follow, requires immediate, concerted and evidence-based engagement of policy makers, planners and managers at national, provincial and community levels ,” said Bruce Campbell, UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam.
Data from the 2009 Census shows that Viet Nam has entered a period known as the "demographic bonus," recording the highest proportional level of young people who are entering the workforce in Viet Nam’s history. Today, young people between 10 to 24 years represent almost a third of the total population. “While this demographic window is open, Viet Nam can benefit from this tremendous resource by ensuring that every young person has access to quality social services, including health, education and training, so that they are well prepared to make a significant contribution to Viet Nam's continued socio-economic growth and development,” added Mr. Campbell. Read in English: Viet Nam Plus, Peoples’ Army, The Peoples, Young People and Youth. Read in Vietnamese: VTV, Viet Nam Laws, Family and Society, Great Unity, Women and Sport and Culture
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON WORLD OF 7 BILLION
ALBANIA: Top Channel on 23 October broadcast a feature piece on the 7 billion milestone. View with English subtitles: Top Channel
Top Channel on 28 October featured an interview of UNFPA Albania PDS Programme Analyst Ms. Flora Ismaili talking about the 7 billion and UNFPA. View in Albanian: Top Channel
BANGLADESH: New Age on 26 October published a photo of the National Youth Forum forming a human chain in front of the National Press Club to create awareness of planned and nuclear families. The event was part of UNFPA's 7 Billion Actions Campaign.
BRAZIL: Veja magazine reported on 31 October that a child born this day in Brazil will live on a planet with more than 7 billion people. In 2100, when he or she turns 89 the elderly over 80 years will represent the largest portion of the population (13.3% of Brazilians). Is Brazil prepared to grow old with this baby? UNFPA Representative in Brazil, Harold Robinson, who recently launched the State of World Population 2011 report, is quoted saying that Brazil is in a good moment and is relatively ahead of the rest of the world in this regard, “even though there are many steps ahead." In his interview, Robinson stressed that, "Brazil now has more people of working age than dependents - children and elderly, who do not work. This window of opportunity must be seized, because there will come a time when the picture begins to change. With the increase in life expectancy the proportion of elderly will increase a lot. " Read in Portuguese: Veja
Isto É magazine reported on 28 October that Bosnian boy Adnan Nevic is one of the few celebrities of Visoko, a town near the capital Sarajevo. His fame is the result of a decision made by the UN in 1999, when he was chosen from the rubble of the Bosnian War to represent the population of 6 billion in our planet. More than a decade later the arrival of his successor is predicted for 31 October. "The world population will continue to grow and we need to be prepared for it," says Richard Kollodge, editor of a United Nations report on population released last week. Read in Portuguese: Isto É
BURKINA FASO: Le Pays and Sidwaya on 26 October reported on the cycle race, which took place on 23 October. This race is the launch of the countdown of the day of the 7 billion inhabitants. It was chaired by the Secretary Permanent of National Council of Population (CONAPO) in the presence of the Representative of the UNFPA/Burkina Dr Mamadou KANTE and the Technical Adviser of the Ministry of the Economy and Finances, representing the Minister of the Economy and Finances. Twenty-five women participated in the race. Their participation was greeted by the Representative of the UNFPA Dr. Mamadou Kanté who in his interview pointed out that an educated woman can change the world.
CAMBODIA: Voice of Democracy (VOD) Radio reported on 26 October that investing in young people is needed as the world reaches 7 billion people, according to a UNFPA press release.
Dr. Osotimehin, UNFPA executive director noted in the press statement that as the world tops 7 billion, it is important to plan and invest in human issues and empower people – it’s not only good for themselves but also for the world. He continued that the world can have sustainable city development and that young people can contribute to the labour force and a productive economy.
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Le Pari africain reported on 26 October on a series of activities initiated by UNFPA from 24 October until World Human Rights Day on 10 December in conjunction with the milestone of a world at 7 billion people to be reached by 31 October 2011, worldwide and in several cities of the Republic of Congo. These activities included the launch of the 2011 State of the World Population report, TV spots and clips, media events, population-related activities and conferences around the country.
EGYPT: Almasry Alyoum reported on 26 October on the 7 billion milestone and quotes UNFPA Egypt Technical Advisor on Population and Development Abdullah Zoubi and mentions a UNFPA-sponsored art exhibit entitled, "Youth in Arab States: Changing the World for the Better" and featuring the work of members of Y-Peer. Read in English: Almasry Alyoum
GEORGIA: Various media outlets reported that on 24 October, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Georgia and the Georgian National Museum held an event “Georgia in the World of 7 Billion” at the National Museum of Georgia. Mr. George Tsereteli, Deputy Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, Mr. Jamie McGoldrick, UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Tamar Khomasuridze, UNFPA Assistant Representative Mr. Zaza Chelidze, Executive Director of the National Statistics Office of Georgia, Ms. Manana Kavtaradze, Head of International Relations Division, Ministry of Youth and Sports and Mr. David Lortkipanidze, Director of the National Museum made the speeches at the event highlighting the paramount significance of the 7 billion world population for Georgia and the whole planet.
The event was concluded with the awarding ceremony of the journalists participating in the contest on the best media coverage on Youth Issues in Georgia, 2011 organized by UNFPA/Georgia and conducted in the framework of a global initiative – The 7 Billion Actions Campaign. Watch in Georgian: PalitraTV, ITV. Read in English: Georgia Today, InterPressNews, Parliament. Read in Georgian: EPN, Heretifm, Mtavari, Trialeti. Read in Russian: News Georgia
GUATEMALA: CERIGUA on 24 October reported that the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched the world anthem "Unite," which was conducted by 50 musicians from 13 countries, to commemorate the beginning of the countdown to 31 October when it is projected that the world population will reach seven billion. Read in Spanish: CERIGUA
CERIGUA on 27 October reported that the few people who own the planet are destroying the resources that belongs to all, so on the milestone to of 7 billion people it is necessary to rethink new ways of producing and distributing wealth in the world according to Leonor Calderón, representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Guatemala. Read in Spanish: CERIGUA
INDONESIA: The Jakarta Post published an article on 22 October on the commemoration of the World at 7 Billion in Yogyakarta, entitled: Global demographic challenges remain unresolved: UNFPA. The article quoted Nobuko Horibe, the UNFPA Asia Pacific Director, as saying that despite its huge impact in various sectors, population growth is a relatively recent phenomenon. In 1804, the global population was at one billion. Only recently has it increased significantly. In 2020, India will overtake China as the most populous country in the world. “If we look at the Asia-Pacific region, its population is currently at about 4 billion, or about 60 percent of the world population. Our share of 60 percent will go down gradually by 2050, while Africa will continue to increase,” said Horibe.
She added that population growth was not just a matter of figures. “It’s much more about how we are educated and employed, how boys and girls are treated and how much access we have to sexual and reproductive health services.”
Despite the commitment made in the ICPD in Cairo in 1994, the reality is still far from what we promise to do. Former UNFPA executive Director and currently Special Envoy to the HIV/AIDS in Asia and Pacific highlighted that many promises in the area of reproductive and sexual health remained undelivered. “After the ICPD, the issue of gender equality showed some progress but there were still some challenges that still had to be quickly overcome.” Read in English: The Jakarta Post
LEBANON: LBC reported on 30 October on the imminent birth of the 7 billion baby. The 2-minute report was screened within the peek-time news bulletin. It featured two newborn Lebanese girls and addressed the main challenges awaiting future generations in Lebanon. The report provided national statistics on poverty, women and youth. UNFPA was directly mentioned with a screenshot of the UNFPA CO website. Watch in Arabic: LBC
MTV reported on 30 October on water scarcity in a world of 7 billion. The 2-minute report was screened within the peek-time news bulletin and provided global UNFPA statistics on the availability of drinking water in light of population projections in the coming years.
Several media outlets reported on 26 October on the initiative UNFPA is leading to welcome Lebanese newborn babies on 31 October, which marks the day the world will be reaching 7 Billion people. This event aims to concretize the symbolic importance of the 7 Billion day and is organized jointly with the Ministry of Public Health and the Lebanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 17 public hospitals throughout Lebanon. On that day, midwives will be distributing welcome packages to newborns and their mothers. The package includes promotional material centered around the 7 billion logo and messages as well as informative pamphlets providing guidance on neonatal, family planning and sexual and reproductive health. The media was invited to cover the event. Read in Arabic: El Nashra, UPI, Vision News, Arabs Today, Al Ittihad, Al Markazia, Al Haraka
Al Hayat reported on 26 October on the 7 Billion Campaign. This article is part of the media-UNFPA Lebanon partnership to increase understanding about the specific challenges implied on Lebanon by a world population of 7 billion. This article is the first in a series of three. It provides a general approach to the campaign and to its rationale, in addition to a number of global trends on several issues, such as life expectancy, fertility and inequality. Read in Arabic: Al Hayat
Al Diyar reported on 24 October on the start of countdown to 7 billion. The article also included a brief overview of the campaign’s main themes. Read in Arabic: Al Diyar
Lebanon Files reported on 29 and 30 October on UNFPA’s 7 Billion Campaign. This one-page article appeared in the website’s special corner. The article describes the campaign led by UNFPA and focuses on the challenges facing Lebanon. The article also mentioned the UNFPA’s joint initiative with the Ministry of Public Health consisting of welcoming newborns in 18 Lebanese hospitals on the day of 7 Billion. Read in Arabic: Lebanon Files
Al Balad published “For your Information,” a statistical section on the 7 Billion Campaign on 30 October. This article is part of the media-UNFPA Lebanon partnership to increase understanding of the specific challenges implied on Lebanon by a world population of 7 billion. This article is the last section in a series of 4 weekly sections. Entitled “Reproductive Health: A Basic Right”, the article provides a statistical snapshot on maternal health in Lebanon. The article also mentions UNFPA Lebanon’s efforts for empowering women making quality SRH services and information available and in preventing gender Based Violence.
MALAWI: The Nation reported on 26 October that on 31 October the world’s population will reach seven billion and that UNFPA country representative Athanase Nzokirishaka said his organisation has since unveiled a new website called 7 Billion Actions as part of its activities to mark the event. The website, according to UNFPA, will give the UN, local governments, economists and NGOs access to data predicting population growth over time. Read in English: The Nation
NAMIBIA: The Namibian on 27 October reported on the impacts of a 7 billion population. “The world population will reach seven billion on October 31, said the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which country representative Fabian Byomuhangi said presents a serious challenge, opportunity and call to manage the world’s resources more prudently.” Read in English: The Namibian
NICARAGUA: Semanario Confidencial reported on 28 October that while population growth is measured mainly in terms of its impact on food security, resources, reproductive health, international migration, unemployment and environmental sustainability, the Executive Director of UNFPA, Babatunde Osotimehin, prefers to see it more positively. Read in Spanish: Semanario Confidencial
PHILIPPINES: The Manila Bulletin on 30 October published an op-ed saying that sometime Sunday, a baby was born, and the world’s population reached seven billion. The birth came a day ahead of what the United Nations has proclaimed as The Day of 7 Billion. It as much a milestone in human history as it is a worldwide cause for deep concern. In the UN World Population Fund’s (UNFPA) list of the world’s most populous countries, the Philippines ranks 12th. That means one in every 73 persons on the planet live here. To Ugochi Daniels, the UNFPA’s country representative in the Philippines, “the challenge is responding to the needs of these young people by providing them with life skills, including proper information about their sexuality, that will allow them to better plan their lives and contribute to nation-building.” Read in English: Manila Bulletin
The Manila Bulletin on 30 October published an editorial saying there will be seven billion people sharing Earth’s land and other resources by October 31, 2011, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). UNFPA is leading a global campaign to build awareness on the opportunities and challenges of a world of seven billion people, to be launched on October 31, 2011 – “7 Billion Day” – when it will also release its annual State of World Population report, titled “People and Possibilities in a World of 7 Billion.” Read in English: Manila Bulletin
SIERRA LEONE: Standard Times published on 28 September that late in October, a child will be born, the 7th billion citizen of planet earth. We will never know the circumstance into which he or she will be born. We know that the baby will enter a world of vast unpredictable change.
The world population has tripled since the United Nations was created in 1945. And our numbers keep growing and corresponding pressure on land, energy, food and water. The global economy is generating pressures as well: these trends link the fate and future of today’s seven billion people as never before. No nation alone can solve the great global challenges of the twenty first century. International cooperation is a universal need.
SOUTH AFRICA: Sowetan reported on 26 October on the UNFPA's 31 October 7 billion milestone. Read in English: Sowetan
TANZANIA: The Citizen on 26 October reported that Tanzanians have been strongly urged to take responsibility and act for the good of development as the world's population reaches 7 billion at the end of this month. This was said by UNFPA Representative Dr. Julita Onabanjo on the official countdown of towards the birth of the 7 billionth child.
The Sunday Guardian on 30 October reported that Tanzanian families too large. With projections that the world population will hit seven billion on 31 October, UNFPA has revealed that many Tanzanians have larger families than they can afford.
TOGO: Togo Presse on 26 October highlighted the celebrations of the 66th anniversary of the United Nations on 24 October under the “7 Billion Actions Campaign.” The celebration, held at a dinner party in the gardens of the Hotel Sarakawa in Lomé witnessed the presence of a cross-section of Togo’s political, traditional and economic elites as well as United Nations’ Representatives and Personnel. In her welcoming speech, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations’ System in Togo, Ms. Khardiata Lo N’diaye, expressed felicitation to the President of the Republic and his Head of Government on the occasion on the election of Togo as a non-permanent member state of the UN Security Council. She further underscored the historic aspect of the year 2011; a year where, according to UNFPA statistics, the world will be counting 7billion inhabitants. Ms. Lo N’diaye concluded by stressing the necessity of putting into place strategic orientation plans in order to face the challenges that a world of 7billion inhabitants would present.
TURKEY: The Hürriyet Daily News reported on 30 October that the day the world population reaches 7 billion is not a cause for alarm. “Our projection is that if current trends continue, the population of Turkey will reach 100 million by 2050, so I’m not very worried. But if you push too hard to have more children it could lead to issues. Many cities like Istanbul are so crowded already,” Dr. Zahidul Huque, the U.N. Population Fund’s (UNFPA) representative in Ankara, said in an interview with the Hürriyet Daily News. Read in English: Hürriyet Daily News
UGANDA: The Observer on 30 October published an article quoting UNFPA Uganda Country Representative Janet Jackson. “We need to stop and ponder on how we can make this space which we all share together a better place,” Jackson said. “There is need to ensure families are planned and that every child is wanted. This will lead to families that are cared for. Individual decisions are very important in determining global population growth.” Jackson also advises that priority be given to women and girls because “when women are healthy and educated they trigger progress in their families, communities and nations.” Read in English: The Observer
New Vision published an editorial on 28 October urging Uganda to “tackle causes of high population growth.” “If we want to pay more than lip service to reducing our population growth rates – among the fastest in the world, we need to pay particular attention to women’s welfare and encourage their empowerment.” UNFPA data is quoted throughout.
UNITED STATES: PBS' "To the Contrary"on 28 October broadcast an interview with UNFPA Executive Director on the 7 billion. His piece starts at the 16:04 mark. View in English: PBS
UNITED KINGDOM: BBC on 28 October broadcast a programme on the 7 billion featuring UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde. Listen in English: BBC
URUGUAY: Several media outlets reported on 29 October that the world population was to reach 7 billion, and coinciding with this occasion UNFPA and Montevideo City Council organized a parade of candombe, a musical genre with African roots that was declared humankind heritage by UNESCO. Hundreds of drums and dancers took to Montevideo’s city center. In addition, a population counter was installed in a public screen on Intendencia’s Square from which Montevideans could follow population reaching 7 billion. Read more in Spanish: Canal 10, La República, Subrayado y Causa Abierta.
Several media outlets reported on 28 October that while the world was expecting its 7 billionth inhabitant, several web applications allowed individuals to discover how many people lived at the moment of every person’s birth. Read more in Spanish: Montevideo.com, El País, Subrayado and El Observador.
VIET NAM: Multiple media outlets reported on 28 October that the world population is projected to reach 7 billion on 31 October. To mark this important milestone, a gala night on “The World at 7 Billion – Counting on Each Other” was held in Ha Noi on 27 October, by the Ministry of Health and the United Nations in Viet Nam. Speaking at the gala night, the Minister of Health, Nguyen Thi Kim Tien said “This gala shows a commitment from the government of Viet Nam on joining efforts for a healthy planet and healthy people”.
The 7 billion milestone is a challenge, it is an opportunity and it is a call to action. “We are here today – different ages, careers, cultures, nationalities and languages – but let the power of music brings us together. I am one of 7 billion. You are one of 7 billion. Each of us has a unique role and shared responsibility to address issues that affect us all towards inclusive, equitable and sustainable development,” said Mr. Bruce Campbell, UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam. Read the in Vietnamese: Gia Dinh va Xa Hoi (Family and Society), Song Tre, Tien Phong and Nhan Dan
EGYPT: The Sexual Harassment File: Can culture be blamed?
Al Masry Al Youm reported on 15 June that trying to unearth the cultural origins of sexual harassment in Egypt is a very complicated endeavor; the core of the matter runs deep and the blame is often passed onto some factor other than the harasser. One thing is certain: sexual harassment does occur on a mass scale. But why? And where does this platform of acceptability come from? “Frustrations from society often push men towards sexual harassment,” said a spokesperson for UNFPA who asked to remain anonymous. “Due to marriage laws and poverty, many males find it impossible to move out of their parents' houses. Eventually out of frustration, the line gets blurred between complimenting a woman and sexually harassing her.” Read: Al Masry Al Youm
EGYPT-LIBYA: Stranded At The Border – And Frustrated
IRIN reported on 7 April on the situation of refugees at the Libya/Egypt border, noting that UNICEF is working to improve water and sanitation as well as running a child vaccination campaign at the border. “We have a team here focusing on water, hygiene and sanitation,” spokesperson Toby Wicks said. “We are trying to make the day seem a little bit shorter for the people who are here.” Psychosocial support is also being offered to families, many of whom are Somali and Eritrean and who had refugee status in Libya. Agencies are also running educational and development sessions for children. “The objective of the activity is to let the children express their feelings, and also have some fun and learning time… in this difficult situation.” Health and hygiene kits are being distributed by UNICEF and International Medical Corps. With very few latrines at the site, UNFPA has also sent 2,000 “dignity bags” for males and females. Read: IRIN
MIDDLE EAST/NORTH AFRICA: Renewable Energy and the Middle East Revolutions
Forbes (US) published a blog on 22 February on reporting that protesters across the Middle East continue their fight for democracy and liberation, speculators have drawn attention to the inevitable impact of this instability and change on the oil and gas sector, in oil price spikes. The blog noted that according to UNFPA, Cairo’s population has nearly doubled over the past 30 years as many rural poor have moved to the city seeking work. In addition, an influx of refugees fleeing neighboring Sudan’s civil war has added to the city’s population burden. As a result, a new urban poor population has taken root in Cairo, with the vast majority living in informal settlements without access to electricity and without political clout. Read: Forbes
EGYPT: Buying Birth Control: Sexual Stigmas And STIs
Al Masry Al Youm reported on 25 January that in Egypt, where no national survey has been conducted on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) other than HIV in over ten years, a stigma regarding the use of protection and contraception methods remains among the younger generations. This stigma, a result of social and religious censure that comes with any sexual act falling outside the bounds of marriage, is damaging to the health of young Egyptians. According to UNFPA, less than one per cent of the population is estimated to be HIV-positive, which means Egypt is a low-HIV-prevalence country. However, with high risk behaviour, such as having sex without protection, the risk of contracting HIV rises to an alarming five percent. Read: Al Masry Al Youm
CONTINUING COVERAGE ON SWOP 2010
IRIN reported on 27 October that the perception that women are only ever victims of conflict ignores the large numbers of female combatants, which can result in their exclusion from disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) programmes. The UNFPA report, State of World Population 2010: From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change, released on 20 October 2010, acknowledges the role women play in forging peace, but cautions against the assumptions of women as nurturers and "natural peace-makers ... [choosing] non-violent solutions rather than conflict whenever possible.” Read: IRIN
IPS reported on 25 October on the week-long debate on the role of women in peace and security which coincides with the tenth anniversary of a landmark Security Council resolution 1325 calling for a key role for women in peacemaking, peacebuilding and peacekeeping operations and the State of World Population 2010 report. The report, “From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change" points out that feminists have often argued that women are natural peacemakers and would choose non-violent solutions rather than conflict, whenever possible. "Since ancient times, however, women have gone to war and the conflicts in contemporary times have involved many women, by choice or forced recruitment," it notes. The study, authored by the former New York Times U.N. Bureau Chief Barbara Crossette, said that ethnic conflict and nationalistic or class-related causes have drawn committed women into civil wars and sometimes terrorism. Read: IPS (25 October)
BANGLADESH: Multiple media outlets reported on 25-29 October that the government, represented by Finance Minister AMA Muhith, disputed demographic figures published in UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report, and questioned the sources used in the report. The minister said, "They (UNFPA) have made an unwarranted interference… I think they have prepared the report sitting at their New York office." In addition to specific disputes over the figures for the total population and maternal mortality ratio, the government questioned the sources used to generate UNFPA’s estimates, arguing that the most recent figures from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) were discounted. Read: Financial Express (29 October), Financial Express (28 October), Financial Express (27 October), Financial Express (26 October), BD News 24, Zee News
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: AFP reported on 30 October that in Bosnia, Association of Concentration Camp Torture Survivors founder Enisa Salcinovic’s campaign, along with that of other associations and NGOs, forced the government of Bosnia's Muslim-Croat Federation -- one of two semi-independent post-war entities along with the Serb-run Republika Srpska -- to adopt a law in 2008 recognizing women's status as war victims. A coalition of NGOs is working with UNPFA and Bosnia's Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees to create an overall strategy to give women survivors equal status across the country. But everybody -- survivors, NGOs, officials and doctors -- agree that this is only one small step in an extremely slow and painful recovery process for the women. According to UNPFA, 80 per cent of the survivors still experience psychological and physical symptoms. Read: AFP
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Les Depeches de Brazzaville reported on 28 October on a statement made by Humanitarian Action Minister, Emilienne Raoul saluting UNFPA humanitarian assistance. At the launching ceremony of the 2010 State of the Population Report, she said, "We wish to express our profound gratitude to UNFPA and its Resident Representative in Congo, for their prompt action on the reproductive health and sexual based violence needs of refugees from Democratic Republic of Congo in Northern Congo. The Minister called upon the government of the DRC to be more active on the diplomatic response to the humanitarian situation. UNFPA Resident Representative David Lawson saluted the government coordination of the response to this crisis with international and national humanitarian partners.
EGYPT: Daily News Egypt reported on 28 October that in an effort to pledge its support for the cause, the Arab League launched the State of the World Population Report for 2010, titled "From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change," from its headquarters last week. “I’m happy to launch the State of the World Population this year from the headquarters of the Arab League and present it to the Arab public opinion in recognition of the great effort and a call to Arabs to benefit from it,” Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa said. “[The report] includes facts, information and a deep analysis of the situation of women and girls in Arab states and other countries suffering from conflicts and war, which is worth looking into and studying and this is what the Arab League will do,” he added. The release of the State of World Population 2010, published by UNFPA, coincides with the tenth anniversary of resolution 1325, the Security Council’s groundbreaking move against the abuse of women in conflict and the marginalization of them in peace-building.
GUATEMALA: La Prensa Libre published an opinion by Ileana Alamilla on 25 October on the release of UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report. Ms. Alamilla called for the transformation of society to build consciousness of the impact of armed conflict on women. Read in Spanish: La Prensa Libre
HAITI: Guyana Chronicle reported on 29 October that recent studies coming out of UNFPA show that on top of everything else, Haiti is fast heading for a population explosion if something is not done urgently to arrest the situation. “There has been a tripling of fertility since the earthquake, and I’m afraid there is going to be a crisis; this is a troubling trend and we are trying to call the attention of the international community and international actors,” UNFPA representative to Haiti, Igor Bosc, told reporters in Port-au-Prince, ahead of the launch there of this year’s State of the World Population Report. Read: Guyana Chronicle
La Prensa reported on 27-28 October and El Nuevo Diario (Nicaragua) reported on 25 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report, which presented Haiti’s recent earthquake as an example of the necessity of UNFPA member states adoption of Resolution 1325, which makes a priority of protecting women and children from gender-based violence in armed conflicts and crises. Read in Spanish: La Prensa (28 October), La Prensa (27 October) and El Nuevo Diario
INDONESIA: Jakarta Globe reported on 25 October that a conference was held in Jakarta to discuss the Ministry for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection’s plan to implement the UN Security Council’s Resolution 1325. At the conference, UNFPA Representative Jose Ferraris said that the UN resolution should be given special attention in Indonesia, given the country’s history of gender-based violence. He said this violence include incidents such as the May 1998 riots in Jakarta, where armed mobs raped at least 160 Chinese-Indonesian women. Read: Jakarta Globe
KYRGYZSTAN: Baldar and 24.kg reported on 21 October on the release of the SWOP report. Read in Russian: Baldar and 24.kg
MONGOLIA: English News MN reported on 28 October that when women have access to the same rights and opportunities as men, they are more resilient to conflict and disaster and can lead reconstruction and renewal efforts in their societies, according to the State of World Population 2010, released on October 27 by UNFPA in Mongolia. The ceremony was attended by, among others, S. Banzragch, Advisor to the Parliament Speaker, and Ms. Munkhtseren, Director of the Administrative Management Department, Ministry of Social Welfare and Labor. Read: English News MN
NEPAL/NORWAY: Fokus - Forum for Women and Development featured an article on 28 October in their magazine Kvinner Sammen reporting on the tenth anniversary of the resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. The magazine wrote that that UNFPA has supported a project in Nepal working on implementing the resolution. The project has, as a result, been able to provide practical training and advice to local UN agencies and the Nepalese government on how 1325 could be implemented, with emphasis on management, security and legal issues. The article further mentioned that the 20 countries, approximately ten per cent of all UN member that have made action-plans for resolution 1325, are mostly European. In Latin America and Asia, only one country respectively has followed recommendations and created an action plan. In Africa five countries have created a plan on how to implement the resolution. Read in Norwegian: Kvinner Sammen
NICARAGUA: El Nuevo Diario reported on 27 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report. UNFPA Representative Junko Sazaki said that in response to disasters, women’s vulnerability to sexual violence is often overlooked. Read in Spanish: El Nuevo Diario
NIGERIA: This Day reported on 27 October that the Executive Director of UNFPA, Dr. Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, recently launched the 2010 State of the World Population Report in London, with the theme "From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change." Read: This Day
SUDAN: UN Radio Miraya, Radio Bakhita and government radio reported on 25 October on the commemoration of World Population Day in Southern Sudan. To mark the event, a four-day workshop was organized by UNFPA and Southern Sudan Centre for Census, Statistics and Evaluation. The media reported that the objective of the workshop was to strengthen the Government Planning Officers and Development Partners’ capacity to analyze, disseminate and utilize data with special emphasis on the data from the fifth Sudan Population and Housing Census for socio-economic development programmes. In his opening remarks, Mr. Mwangulube, IOC UNFPA Southern Sudan Office emphasized the commitment of UNFPA support to the Government of Southern Sudan in generation of data on population dynamics to feed “people centred’’ policies and programmes to meet the MDGs.
CONTINUING COVERAGE ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AND BEJING +15
Afrol News reported on 8 March on a ranking of countries according to the status of women compiled and released by CARE Norway to coincide with International Women’s Day. The ranking is based on the UN's Gender Empowerment Index and Gender-related Development Index; WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA and World Bank statistics of women's health; the Human Development Index and information provided from CARE offices in developing countries. Read: Afrol News
LATIN AMERICA: Multiple media outlets reported on 8 March on UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid’s statement marking International Women's Day. In her statement, Ms. Obaid called on governments around the world to support women’s rights. Read in Spanish: Ciudadania Express (Mexico), El Nuevo Diario (Nicaragua), PPN (Paraguay) and Neike (Paraguay), Reporte360 , EntornoInteligente, Biosalud and Analítica (Venezuela)
BHUTAN: Kuensel reported on 9 March that in her statement on International Women’s Day, Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuck, president of RENEW and goodwill ambassador of UNFPA, urged the government and the people of Bhutan to take personal responsibility to embrace this year’s theme, “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress For All.” Read: Kuensel
BOLIVIA: Radio FM Bolivia reported on 8 March that, on International Women’s Day, United Nations representatives, the Mayor of La Paz and the Brigade for the Protection of the Family launched the campaign “Unite to end violence against women and girls.” UNFPA Representative Jaime Nadal explained that the campaign is based on four areas of work and in revising existing legislation to ensure compliance with the rights of women, adolescents and girls.
Correo del Sur reported 8 March that in Sucre, the Network Against Gender Violence called for all sectors to be part of the demonstration and mobilization against violence, femicide and impunity and for reduction of maternal mortality. UNFPA estimates that 290 Bolivian women die every year in pregnancy and childbirth. Read in Spanish: Correo del Sur
CAMEROON: The Cameroon Tribune reported on 9 March on a parade to mark International Women’s Day in the country. As the women marched past under the cover of umbrellas of UNFPA, they were joined at one point by the Minister of Women's Empowerment and the Family, Marie-Therese Abena Ondoa Obama. Read: Cameroon Tribune
COLOMBIA: SNE reported 8 March that Colombia was invited as keynote speaker at the opening ceremony of the exhibition 'Portraits of War and Women on the Frontline” photo and video exhibit in Geneva (Switzerland). The Director of UNFPA’s office in Geneva, Alanna Armitage, made the event’s official presentation. Read in Spanish: SNE
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Congo-site and Tele-Congo reported on 9 March that 60,000-women marched on International Women's Day, led by Gender Minister Jeanne Leckomba Loumeto, and UNFPA Representative David Lawson. The march culminated at the Parliament where messages of support to women were delivered by representatives of youth, women, men, the UN system and the Gender Minister. This march has been registered as largest ever gathering of Congolese women. Read in French: Congo-Site and Watch in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville
Congo-site reported on 11 March on the message by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, UNFPA Executive Director, on gender equality, delivered in the Republic of Congo by Representative, David Lawson, on the occasion of International Women's Day, stressing that UNFPA would work in cooperation with its partners to support women autonomy, gender equality, reproductive and sexual health rights. Read: Congo-Site
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: El Nuevo Diario , Hoy Digital and Listin Diario reported on 8 and 9 March that President Leonel Fernández honored 10 outstanding women with the Medal of Merit of Women for their contributions to national development in various areas, an event that is part the celebration of International Women's Day. Others recognized at the event, were Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, director of UNFPA and Mirta Roses , regional director of WHO. Read in Spanish: El Nuevo Diario and Hoy Digital and Listin Diario
EGYPT: Multiple media outlets reported 8-16 March on celebrations of International Women's Day. Al Mesasaeya reported on 10 March on a statement by UNFPA representative Ziad Rifai, who noted the 100th anniversary of the Day. Mr. Rifai described the position of women as an important issue in human rights; moreover he said that it is clear that women are less fortunate in the fields of education and specifically suffering from violence against women, labor and economic discrimination. There are social and religious contraints to the achievement of equality for women. Rural women are those that face the most unjust treatment of all. Women’s rights is not specific to women only, but rather an issue of development itself in the first place.
IRAN: Iran News published UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Obaid’s statement marking International Women’s Day on 8 March.
JAMAICA: The Jamaica Observer reported on 9 March on a ceremony where staff reporter Nadine Wilson and All Woman Editor Petulia Clarke were honored with awards for for their outstanding contribution to various sectors of the society as part of celebrations to mark International Women's Day and the launch of the Inter-American Year of Women. At the ceremony, Director of the UNFPA sub regional office of the Caribbean Dr Hernando Agudelo pointed out that gender equality remains one of the greatest challenges, despite the fact that, "In every part of the world women are the weavers of the fabric of the society.” Read: The Jamaica Observer
JAMAICA: The Jamaica Gleaner reported on 9 March that women from all spheres of Jamaican life gathered downtown Kingston to mark International Women's Day, and to launch the Inter-American Year of Women . Hernando Agudelo of UNFPA said that women were the weavers of the fabric of society and that gender equality was one of the greatest challenges of our times. Read in Spanish: Jamaica Gleaner
JAPAN: The Manichi Daily News reported on 11 March on a symposium entitled "Equal rights, equal opportunities: Progress for all -- Beijing at 15: Gender equality, development and peace," organized by 19 U.N. organizations with offices in Japan and media outlet Nikkei Inc. event hosted a celebrity line-up of speakers, including UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador and former Olympic marathon runner Yuko Arimori, and singer, writer and Ambassador of the Japan Committee for UNICEF Agnes Chan, who both stressed the need to improve the brutal living conditions of girls and women they witnessed in numerous developing countries they visited in their U.N. capacities. Read: The Manichi Daily News
NAMIBIA: The New Era reported on 10 March that, under the theme ‘Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All," Namibian women celebrated International Women’s Day along with the rest of the world. Fabian Byomuhangi, UNFPA representative in Namibia, said from a statement by United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon that gender equality and women’s empowerment are fundamental to the global mission of the United Nations to achieve equal rights and dignity for all. Read: New Era
NAMIBIA: New Era reported on 10 March on an event marking International Women’s Day in Namibia. Fabian Byomuhangi, UNFPA representative in Namibia, read a statement by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon that gender equality and women’s empowerment are fundamental to the global mission of the United Nations to achieve equal rights and dignity for all. Read: New Era
NIGER: Le Sahel Quotidien reported on 10 March that during the commemoration of the International Women’s Day, the UNFPA Country Office in Niger received, from the Minister of Population, Women’s Promotion and Children’s Protection, Sanady Tchimaden Hadattan, a trophy for the best actor in gender equity promotion on behalf of the “Promotion and Incubation Centre for Entrepreneurship and Leadership of Niger – CIPEL.” The ceremony took place on the occasion of the first edition of the international trophy for African active women –TIFAA 2010.
SIERRA LEONE: Awoko reported on 8 March that as the world marks the International Women’s Day Celebration around the world UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid stated in her message that in every part of the world women are the weavers of the fabric of society, and progress towards equality is still not being made. Read: Awoko
SOUTH AFRICA: SABC International News featured an interview on 8 March with UNFPA Assistant Representative Nonhlanhla Zindela on progress towards realizing women’s rights in South Africa, UNFPA’s experience in different countries, UNFPA’s mandate to advance the rights of women and the theme for this year’s International Women's Day, which was Beijing +15.
SABC Africa featured interviews on radio and television on 7 and 8 March with UNFPA Deputy Representative/OIC Mark B. Schreiner and the UNFPA Assistant Representative, that included a discussion on the history of International Women’s Day along with issues including the impact of climate change on women and connections between gender, population and climate change.
TANZANIA: The Citizen published on 11 March a statement by UNFPA Representative Julitta Onabanjo marking International Women’s Day on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania. Ms. Onabanjo urged Tanzania to build on past progress on women’s rights and continue to prioritize women’s education and health and pledged the UN’s ongoing commitment to support Tanzania’s government in its efforts to meet the goals named in the the 1994 ICPD Programme of Action, the 1995 Beijing Platform of Action and the MDGs.
The Citizen reported on 8 March on International Women’s Day observations in Tanzania. “As long as one in three Tanzanian girls are beaten, coerced into sex, or abused in some way and these crimes remain unpunished, we have to enact and enforce equitable laws and practice justice. As long as every third woman in Tanzania can neither read nor write, we have to stand up for equal rights and opportunity,” said UNFPA Representative, Dr. Julitta Onabanjo, on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania. Dr Onabanjo, said that the UN is committed in supporting the country to fight this challenges. Read: The Citizen
TIMOR-LESTE: Diario Nacional reported on 9 March that the Grupo Mulheres Parliamentarian Timor-Leste (GMPTL), Parliamentary Committee’s and local and community leaders held a one-day conference on Sex Education, Family Planning and Reproductive Health on 4 March in the Oecusee District. The event was in celebration of International Women’s Day. The conference was supported by UNMIT, UNIFEM, UNFPA, UNICEF, Alola Foundation, Rede feto, Fokupers, Catholic Relief Services, Marie Stopes International, Diocese Dili, Cannosian Sister, the Minister of Education, Ministerio Saude and fully supports from GRC national parliament.
TURKEY: Xinhua (China) reported on 8 March that as the world celebrates the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, Turkish women still have difficulty getting support for combat against domestic violence.This is the conclusion of a one-day conference titled “End Violence Against Women,” hosted by local daily Hurriyet in Istanbul. Coordinator of UNFPA Gender Programme Meltem Agduk, who attended the meeting, said between one-fifth and one-third of women worldwide suffer from physical and sexual violence – with no significant difference in rates of domestic violence between Turkey and the West.
UNITED STATES: The Huffington Post published a blog by Sharon Camp, President and CEO of The Guttmacher Institute on 8 March arguing that, as political leaders, policymakers and advocates gather at the United Nations to assess global progress on these issues, they will have at their disposal a clear roadmap to guide future investments in global reproductive health--a December 2009 report from the Guttmacher Institute and the UNFPA documenting the enormous benefits that accrue from increased funding for both family planning and pregnancy-related and newborn care. Read: The Huffington Post
UGANDA: The Daily Monitor published an International Women’s Day supplement, featuring UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid’s statement on the day and an interview with UNFPA representative Janet Jackson.
URUGUAY: La Diaria reported on 11 March that in the framework of International Women's Day, UNFPA issued a study on implementation in Uruguay of public policies on population, sexual and reproductive health and gender. Read in Spanish: La Diaria
VENEZUELA: ABN reported on 8 March that before the centennial celebration of International Women's Day, feminists posed new challenges for achieving gender equity as the democratization of productive and reproductive work and equal pay and conditions, and the eradication of violence against women. Project coordinator for UNFPA, Morelba Jimenez, said that women "have not achieved the separation between the productive and reproductive work, which is why women work 24 hours in a triple shift, which includes community work. Read in Spanish: ABN
VIET NAM: Voice of Viet Nam, Nhan Dan, Family and Society and Dai Doan Ket reported on 13 March that the occasion of the International Women’s Day, the United Nations in Viet Nam, in collaboration with the Gender Equality Department (MOLISA) organised a workshop “Gender equality and women’s empowerment 15 years after the fourth World Conference on Women” on 12 March in Ha Noi. Addressing gender-based violence, UNFPA representative Bruce Campbell said: “While Viet Nam has made great progress in putting in place legislation to protect women from violence, there are still many challenges to address in implementing the new Domestic Violence law, including inadequate financial resources for services and programmes, limited awareness of the new law, existing attitudes that accept violence, and the need for clear legal guidelines for the justice system.”Read: Voice of Viet Nam and in Vietnamese: Nhan Dan; Voice of Viet Nam; Family and Society
YEMEN: Multiple media outlets reported on 8 and 10 March that UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Obaid, issued a message on International Women’s Day, in which she paid tribute to all women worldwide who contribute so much to the well-being of their families, communities and nations. Read in Arabic: Althawra, Nabaneews, and Al-tagheer
ZAMBIA: Afrique en Ligne reported on 8 March that in Zambia, 8 March is observed as a public holiday to commemorate the Day. Activists argue that the struggle for the full emancipation of women is far from over and are calling for more participation of women in political and economic decision-making to realise econ omic development in the country. In a message released to commemorate the Day, the UNFPA executive director, Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, paid tribute to all women worldwide who contribute so much to the well-being of their families, communities and nations. Read: Afrique en Ligne
ZIMBABWE: The Standard reported in its 7-13 March issue on the history of International Women’s Day and published a message from UNFPA marking the day with a call for support for women’s rights and reiterating its commitment to women’s empowerment, gender equality and reproductive health and rights.
EGYPT: UN Releases Preliminary Results of Youth Survey
Multiple media outlets reported on 15 - 17 February on the launch of the preliminary report of the Survey on Young People in Egypt 2009. UNFPA has been the leading UN Agency for developing this report, the first one since 1997, and Dr Ziad Rifai, Egypt Representative was a panelist at the report launch.
COVERAGE OF LAUNCH OF 2009 STATE OF THE WORLD POPULATION REPORT (SWOP): FACING A CHANGING WORLD, WOMEN, POPULATION AND CLIMATE
AFP (France) reported 18 November on the launch of the 2009 State of the World Population Report (SWOP). The Spanish version misrepresented the report’s emphasis on family planning and UNFPA’s work as “population control.” "Slower population growth... would help build social resilience to climate change's impacts and would contribute to a reduction of greenhouse-gas emissions in the future," UNFPA said. Read: AFP and in Spanish: AFP
The Associated Press (United States) reported 18 November on the release of the SWOP report, misrepresenting UNFPA’s work, and the report’s findings, claiming that “The U.N. Population Fund acknowledged it had no proof of the effect that population control would have on climate change.” Read: Associated Press and in Spanish: Associated Press
BBC (UK) reported 18 November that women in developing countries will be the most vulnerable to climate change, a report from UNFPA has warned. "[There] are fundamental questions about how climate change will affect women, men, boys and girls differently around the world, and indeed within nations, and how individual behaviour can undermine or contribute to the global effort to cool our warming world," UNFPA executive director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid said. Read: BBC and in Spanish: BBC
BBC (UK) reported 18 November that UNFPAs Executive Director Thoraya Obaid told the BBC that the annual figures showed the continent's population had doubled in the last 27 years. "Africa countries are all growing fast... because there is large number of women who have no access to planning their families," she said. Read: BBC
BBC (UK) included the question “Do children contribute to climate change” as the subject for debate in its 18 November “Africa Have Your Say” segment. Read: BBC
CNN International reported 18 November that UNFPA warns that it is women in the developing world who are bearing the brunt of the worsening and accelerating impact of climate change. “Women are on the front lines of many societies buffeted by climate change -- and research indicates they tend to be more vulnerable to these impacts," said the report's lead author, Robert Engelman. Read: CNN
IPS reported 20 November on the Global Forum For Health Research, noting that UNFPA’s State of World Population 2009 report, released Nov. 18, states that climate change threatens to aggravate poverty. "Poor households are especially vulnerable to climate change because their marginal income provides little or no access to health services or other safety nets to protect against the threats from changing conditions and because they lack the resources to relocate when crises strike. Some of the possible direct threats that climate change could pose on the region's poor include death and illness resulting from extreme heat, unusual cold, infectious diseases and malnutrition," says the report. Read: IPS
IPS reported 19 November that UNFPA’s report, subtitled "Facing a changing world: women, population and climate", attempts to move the focus of climate change debates away from the”‘what” and the “where” to the “who.” The report finds that members of poor households are especially vulnerable, as many live in rural areas and depend on the land and sea for their livelihoods. Their scant income provides little security to protect them against threats from changing conditions, and limited access to health services. Bunmi Makinwa, director of the UNFPA regional office for Sub-Saharan Africa, spoke to IPS about three challenges likely to exacerbate the effects of climate change for African populations. Read: IPS
IPS reported 18 November that a new U.N. report on the hazards of climate change brings a fresh human perspective to an ongoing wide-ranging debate that has focused primarily on energy efficiency and industrial carbon emissions. Climate change is much more than greenhouse-gas emissions, says the study by UNFPA, it is also population dynamics, poverty and gender equity. Read: IPS
Nature reported 18 November that providing access to contraception for 215 million women, mainly in developing countries, would help to stabilize population growth and significantly reduce the effects of climate change, UNFPA says in a new report. The State of the World Population 2009 report says that population levels will affect countries' abilities to adapt to the immediate effects of climate change, although the longer-term influence of population growth on climate change will depend on future economic, technological and consumption trends. Read: Nature
Reuters reported 18 November that In its 2009 state of the world population report, UNFPA said the world's poor are the most vulnerable to climate change and the majority of the 1.5 billion people living on $1.0 a day or less are women. Read: Reuters and in Spanish: Reuters
UN News Centre reported 18 November that the UNFPA report warned that the poor depend more on agriculture for their livelihoods, risking hunger and loss of income when droughts strike, rains become unpredictable and hurricanes move with unprecedented force. Read: UN News Centre
UPI reported 18 November that the SWOP says educational and healthcare programmes for women and girls can help since they tend to lead to smaller and healthier families that lower the overall growth of greenhouse emissions. "With the possibility of a climate catastrophe on the horizon, we cannot afford to relegate the world's 3.4 billion women and girls to the role of victim," UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid said. "Wouldn't it make more sense to have 3.4 billion agents for change?" Read: UPI
Voice of America (United States) reported 18 November that the report warns that women, especially in poor countries, are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, especially in agricultural communities. Drought and erratic rainfall force women to work harder to secure food for their households. Girls often
Xinhua (China) reported 18 November that the UNFPA report warned that the poor depend more on agriculture for their livelihoods, risking hunger and loss of income when droughts strike, rains become unpredictable and hurricanes move with unprecedented force. Read: Xinhua
AFRICA: The South African Civil Society Information Service published analysis 19 November by Saliem Fakir, as UNFPA released its "State of the World Population 2009" report on the 18 November. It chose to take up a politically delicate topic, the relationship between climate change, population stabilization and the importance of gender. The fundamental question it seeks to address is: how much of a threat is the growth in population to the world and how much of this increase will lead to a spike in green house gas (GHG) emissions? Read: The South African Civil Society Information Service
LATIN AMERICA: Multiple Media outlets reported 16– 22 on the regional launch of the State of World Population 2009 Report, which took place at the United Nations Information Centre in Mexico City, and was organized by the United Nations Population Fund Mexico’s office. Regional Director of UNFPA for Latin America and The Caribbean emphasized the importance of investing in public policies on population issues and an education system that take into account the impact of climatic change. Robert Engelman, Vice President of the Worldwatch Institute and main author of the report also spoke on the importance of accounting for women in the fight against global warming. Read in Spanish: EFE, EFE, Clave Digital (Dominican Republic), La Jornada (Mexico), Once TV (Mexico), ABC (Paraguay), ABC (Paraguay), CIMAC (Mexico), El Espectador (Mexico), El Nuevo Empresario (Mexico) and Ellas Virtual (Panama)
ARGENTINA: Multiple media outlets reported 18 – 22 November on the launch of the State of the World Population report, and comments by Eleanor Fuar of UNFPA. Read in Spanish: Infobae, Diario Norte, Télam, Clarín, Pagína 12, Diario del Cuyo, Red Hum, Rio Negro, El Liberal
AUSTRALIA/PACIFIC: Radio Australia reported 18 November that UNFPA has put out its annual State of the World Population report, which focuses on the human dimensions of climate change, and in particular its effects on women. Globally, the report highlights persistently high levels of maternal mortality, and it warns that changes in the earth's climate will only add to the burden for the poor. It singles out some of Australia's closest neighbours - East Timor and Papua New Guinea - where high numbers of women die in childbirth. Read: Radio Australia
AUSTRALIA: The Australian reported 20 November that investing in birth control to reduce population growth could be more effective in cutting greenhouse gas emissions than building wind turbines or nuclear power stations, according to a UN report. Taking action to prevent one billion births by 2050 would save as much carbon dioxide as constructing two million giant wind turbines. The UNFPA predicts the global population could reach 10.5 billion by 2050, up from 6.8 billion today, unless urgent action is taken to reduce fertility rates.
AUSTRALIA: Canberra Times published a column 19 November by Eileen Kelly, noting United Nations' Population Fund issued its 2009 report State of World Population which categorically states that family planning and sexual and reproductive health care can change the course of climate change.
AUSTRALIA: GMagazine reported 19 November women are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change, bearing the disproportionate burden of a warming planet, according to a report released by UNFPA. Read: GMagazine
AUSTRALIA: AAP reported 18 November that women are more vulnerable to climate change than men and will continue to bear the brunt of extreme weather conditions unless more is done to educate and empower them, a report has found. The State of World Population 2009 report, released by UNFPA, says women have been overlooked in discussions on how to combat rising seas, drought and melting glaciers. Read: AAP
AUSTRALIA: The Sydney Morning Herald reported 18 November that, braking the rise in Earth's population would be a major help in the fight against global warming, according to an unprecedented UN report that draws a link between demographic pressure and climate change. "Slower population growth... would help build social resilience to climate change's impacts and would contribute to a reduction of greenhouse-gas emissions in the future," the UNFPA says. Read: Sydney Morning Herald
BANGLADESH: The Independent reported 20 November that the UNFPA report on the state of the world population this year finds that women bear the brunt of climate change more than men do, but the fact has so far been largely overlooked in the debate about how to address problems of rising seas, worsening storms and severe droughts. Representative in Bangladesh Arthur Erken said that poor women in poor countries like Bangladesh were among the hardest hit by climate change, even though they contributed least to it."The poor are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change, and the majority of the 1.5 billion people living on $1 a day or less are women. The poor are more likely to depend on agriculture for a living and therefore risk going hungry or losing their livelihoods when droughts strike, rains become unpredictable and hurricanes move with unprecedented force," he explained. Read: The Independent
BANGLADESH: The Financial Express reported 18 November that Bangladesh's present population is 162.2 million and may rise to 222.5 million by 2050 at the current growth rate of 1.4 percent, according to the latest count by UN agency UNFPA. UNFPA representative Arthur Erken, executive director of Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies Dr. Atiq Rahman, DGFP director general Mohammad Abdul Qayyum, former adviser of caretaker government Rasheda K Chowdhury and Health and Family Welfare Ministry secretary Shaikh Altaf Ali unveiled the report. Read: The Financial Express
BANGLADESH: The New Nation reported 18 November on the Dhaka release of the SWOP report, which found that women bear the disproportionate burden of climate change. Poor women in poor countries like Bangladesh are among the hardest hit by climate change even though they contributed the least to it. Arthur Erken, UNFPA representative in Bangladesh gave the welcome speech while Shaikh Altaf Ali, Secretary, Ministry of Health, Family Planning and Welfare was present as the chief guest. Read: The New Nation
BANGLADESH: The Daily Star reported 18 November climate change may reverse the hard-earned development gains of the past and the progress towards achieving the millennium development goals (MDGs), said the UNFPA in its 'State of the World Population 2009' report. The climatic change also threatens to exacerbate the gap between the rich and the poor and amplify the inequalities between the men and women, says the report titled “Facing a changing world: women, population and climate.” Read: The Daily Star
BELARUS: Belta.by, and Naviny.by, reported 18 – 19 November on the release of the SWOP report in Minsk. Read in Russan: Belta.by (19 November), Naviny.by, Naviny.by
BOLIVIA: Multiple media outlets reported 18 – 22 November on the release of the 2009 SWOP report, including statements by UNFPA representative in Bolivia, Jaime Nadal-Roig, marking the launch. Read in Spanish: EFE, EFE, EABolivia.com, AFP, Los Tiempos, Los Tiempos, La Razon, Erbol, Jornada, Cambio, El Ciudadano, and ADN
BURUNDI: Le Renouveau du Burundi reported 16 November that climate change has negative consequences on population. In Burundi, we have sometimes dryness and sometimes inundation in some areas of the country. Many houses or social infrastructures are destroyed and people, especially women and children are victims. They suffer of hungry and diseases and what is worse is that the government hasn’t enough means to secure them, said the Chief of Cabinet of the Ministry of Water, Environment, Territory and Urbanism.
CAMBODIA: The Phnom Penh Post and Radio ABC Australia (Australia) Khmer service reported 20 November on the release of the 2009 SWOP report in Cambodia. “Women manage households and care for family members, which often limits their mobility and increases their vulnerability”, said Alice Levisay, UNFPA Representative. Read in Khmer: Radio ABC Australia
CANADA: The CBC reported 18 November that The State of World Population report, an annual document presented by UNFPA, said making condoms and reproductive education more widely available could help curb emissions by slowing population growth. Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, the UNFPA’s executive director, told a news conference in London that global warming could be catastrophic for people in poor countries, particularly women. "We have now reached a point where humanity is approaching the brink of disaster," she said. Read: CBC
CAPE VERDE: Multiple media outlets reported 18 November on an event marking the release of the 2009 SWOP chaired by the UNFPA Representative in Cape Verde Ms Petra Lantz, who called special attention of journalist on the human dimension of the climate change, focusing on the fact that the more vulnerable people, especially women and children, are most affect in the changing world, due to the climate change. Read in Portuguese: Expreso das Ilhas, Infopress, Nhaterra, RTC
CHINA: China Radio International reported 18 November that UNPFA warns in its annual report that family planning, reproductive health care and gender relations could influence future climate change and affect how humanity adapts to rising seas, worsening storms and severe droughts. This year's State of World Population report concludes that international climate-change agreements and national policies are more likely to succeed if they take into account population dynamics, relationships between the sexes, women's well-being and access to services or opportunities. Read: China Radio International
COLOMBIA: El Pais reported 18 November on the release of the SWOP report and the impact of climate change in Colombia. Read in Spanish: El Pais
REPUBLIC OF CONGO (Brazzaville): Les Depeches de Brazzaville and Congo-Site reported 19 November on the release of the 2009 SWOP report in Congo. Read in French: Depeches de Brazzaville and Congo-Site
COSTA RICA: La Nacion, La Prensa Libre, Diario Extra and El Diario de Nuestra Pais reported 18-20 November on the SWOP launch, and the report’s implications for the world, as well as for Costa Rica. Read in Spanish: La Nacion, Prensa Libre, Diario Extra
CUBA: Juventud Libre reported 18 November on the launch of the SWOP report, which points out that, more than a technical question regarding industry and energy efficientcy, climate change affects people, and is shaped by individuals’ behavior. Read in Spanish: Juventud Libre
DENMARK: The Copenhagen Post reported 20 November that family planning and access to contraception are key proponents of fighting climate change, according to Minister for Development Cooperation Ulla Tørnæs. Tørnæs was speaking at the University of Copenhagen in connection with the launch of the latest ‘State of World Population’ report from UNFPA. Read: The Copenhagen Post
EGYPT: Daily News Egypt published an op-ed by Caroline Boin, Project Director at International Policy Network on 22 November, mischaracterizing UNFPA’s mission as dedicated to population control: “Rehash old fears and update them with the alarmist topic du jour - that's the recipe for the United Nations Population Fund's annual report dedicated to climate change. Its State of World Population 2009 correctly points out that poor women will be the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. But it focuses on old-fashioned population control instead of real ways to empower women against poverty and climate change.” Read: Daily News Egypt
EL SALVADOR: La Prensa Grafica reported 18 – 19 November on the release of the SWOP report and its implications for El Salvador. Read in Spanish: La Prensa Gráfica, La Prensa Gráfica, La Prensa Gráfica, La Prensa Gráfica
ETHIOPIA: Ethiopian News published a column 20 November by Yilma Bekele, responding to a radio report in which UNFPA was discussing the state of human population growth. According to them there are eighty-two and half million Ethiopians. Plenty of us if you ask me. On the other hand the Ethiopian government count shows seventy-three point nine million Ethiopians. Quiet a discrepancy wouldn’t you say. We are talking about eight point six million Abeshas an accounted for. Read: Ethiopian News
GABON: Gabon Page and L’Union reported 16-20 November on the release of the 2009 SWOP report, which was attended by State of the World Population 2009 by Ms Mariama Darboe Diop, UNFPA deputy director. Read in French: Gabon Page and L’Union
GERMANY: Spiegel reported 20 November that, with the world struggling to come up with an agreement ahead of December's Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen, one important fact has been overlooked: Women are hit hardest by the extreme weather shifts, according to a new UN report. “Poor women in poor countries are among the hardest hit by climate change, even though they contributed the least to it," wrote UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid in a press statement. Read: Spiegel
GHANA: GNA reported 18 November that the 2009 state of the World Population Report, has revealed that the earth surface continues to warm up due to human activities with temperatures increasing by 0.74 degree Celsius within the past two centuries. Ms Thoraya Obaid, UNFPA Executive Director in a speech read on her behalf, by Mr Jude Edochie, UNFPA Country Representative in Ghana, said poor women in poor countries were among the hardest hit by climate change even though they contributed the least to it. Read: GNA
GUATEMALA: Cerigua reported 18 - 19 November on the release of the SWOP report, emphasizing the importance of including women in efforts to combat climate change.” Read: Cerigua (19 November), Cerigua (18 November)
INDIA: Express Buzz and The Australian reported 20 November that, days ahead of the 190-country Copenhagen summit on climate-change, Union Minister for Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh said it was unlikely that the conference come out with anything substantial. “Do not expect much from this round of discussions in Copenhagen. It looks like the negotiations would continue. “The single most important cause of emissions is beef eating,'' Mr Ramesh said during a speech to launch the UNFPA state of the world population report. Read: Express Buzz
INDIA: Over 25 newspapers in English, Hindi, Oriya and Marathi covered the release of SWOP 09 in India. The news also appeared on media websites and various satellite television channels. Doordarshan - India’s national TV network - telecast a 30-minute interview with Nesim Tumkaya, UNFPA Representative. To view the interviews on YouTube, visit india.unfpa.org.
INDIA: Hindustan Times reported 20 November on remarks by state health secretary S.R. Mohanty and UNFPA State Programme Coordinator Prakash Deo marking the release of the SWOP report, as the two called for renewed attention to climate change and investment in family welfare programmes.
INDIA: The Hindustan published, on 20 November, an interview with UNFPA representative Nesim Tumkaya on the impact of climate change on India and issues related to population and family planning.
INDIA: The Pioneer reported 20 November that Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh trashed a United Nation's report from the same platform that he released it from. The UNFPA’s State of World Population 2009 report, which the minister had released, suggested taking population dynamics into account to ensure success of international climate change agreements. However, Ramesh said the two could not be linked and India needed to take on the propaganda that her population leads to emissions. "Brand population has been termed as the biggest culprit in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but there is now abundant evidence to show that climate change is not related in any way to population growth. A billion people do not need be higher emitters," he emphasised.
INDIA: The Pioneer reported 20 November that the release of the SWOP report was coordinated by UNFPA along with the Indian Red Cross Society Odisha State Branch (IRCS OSB). Principal Secretary of State Forest & Environment Department Upendra Nath Behera, who released the report, said despite the large population in our country, we consume less power compared to some other developed countries. Nevertheless, it is still our responsibility to ensure we do our part to arrest climate change.
INDIA: The Times of India reported 20 November that India is going to be the world's most populous country in the next 40 years, according to the 2009 SWOP report. Read: The Times of India
INDIA: Kalinga Times reported 19 November that family planning, reproductive health care and gender relations could influence the future course of climate change and affect how humanity adapts to rising seas, worsening storms and severe droughts, according to The State of World Population 2009, published by UNFPA. Read: Kalinga Times
INDIA: PTI reported 19 November that Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed concern over climate change and called for a collective endeavour by countries all over the world to control the global phenomenon. "Climate change is taking place rapidly and collective efforts are needed to control it," Gehlot said venting his anxieties after releasing the new UNPFA report here on the effects of climate change. Read: PTI
INDIA: MyNews.in reported 19 November on India’s low expectations for the upcoming global summit on climate change, noting that UNFPA – like the reports of other UN organization has focused extensively on climate change. Read: MyNews.in
INDIA: PTI reported 18 November that, giving a new angle to the climate change, the UNFPA said family planning, reproductive health care and gender relations could influence the future course of climate change and affect how humanity adapts to rising seas, worsening storms and severe droughts. Releasing the report in Mumbai, Vandana Krishna, secretary and commissioner family welfare, public health department, Maharashtra government said that the report clearly questions the current model of development. Read: PTI
INDIA: Zee News reported 18 November that the battle against global warming could be helped if the world slowed population growth by making free condoms and family planning advice more widely available, according to UNFPA. Read: Zee News
INDONESIA: Kompas reported in three articles on 19 November on the launch of the SWOP report in Jakarta, where UNFPA Representative Dr. Zahidul Huque said developing countries contribute about 3% of the global carbon emission but they are the most affected by the climate change. 50% of 240 million Indonesia’s population live on less than $2 per day, making it difficult for them to cope with increased food prices, less clean water, and access health care when sick, and Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Linda Amalia Sari said that in their role as nurturers, women can educate children and community members to plant trees and protect the environment.
IRAN: Tehran Times reported 18 November that UNFPA hosted a conference at Tehran University on population and climate change to launch the 2009 SWOP. Read: Tehran Times
IRELAND: Irish Times reported 19 November on the UNFPA report, Facing a Changing World: Women, Population and Climate Change , details how climate change threatens to widen the gap between rich and poor and amplify gender inequalities. Slower population growth in both developed and developing countries may help “ease the task of bringing global emissions into balance with the atmosphere in the long run and enabling more immediate adaptation to change already under way”, the report argues. “For many people – especially poor women in poor countries – climate change is here and now,” said UNFPA director of human resources Sean Hand at the Irish launch of the report in Dublin. “Poor women in poor countries are among the hardest hit by climate change even though they contributed the least to it.” Read: Irish Times
LAO PDR: The Vientiane Times and the Vientiane Mai reported 20 November that UNFPA Lao PDR in cooperation with the Department of International Cooperation of Ministry of Investment and Planning launch this year's State of World Population report. The launch is chaired by the Vice Minister of Ministry of Planning and Investment and Meiko Labuta, UNFPA Representative, in Lao PDR. The 2009 report, “Facing a changing world: women, population and climate”, puts people at the centre of discussions on climate change. “Climate change is more than an issue of energy efficiency or industrial carbon emissions; it is also an issue of population dynamics, poverty and gender equity,” says UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid
LIBERIA: Multiple media outlets reported 18 November on the launch of the 2009 SWOP report in Monrovia. Read: STAR Radio, The News, Public Agenda, The Monitor
MALDIVES: ISRIA, Minivan News, and Haveeru reported 22 November that Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed launched UNFPA State of World Population 2009 Report. Speaking at the launching function, the Vice President said while we pursue solutions to both mitigation and adaptation, “we must also address human rights and social issues.” Read: ISRIA, Minivan news, Haveeru
MONGOLIA: Unuudur reported 20 November that UNFPA organized a press conference for journalists to launch the State of World Population Report. Due to the climate change recently in Mongolia the number of natural disasters has been increasing and took the lives of 304 people for the last decade. They also highlighted that women bear the disproportionate burden of climate change, but have so far been largely overlooked in the debate about how to address problems caused by extreme weather events. Read: Unuudur
NEPAL: The Kathmandu Post and Republica reported 20 November that UNFPA in Nepal has called for a renewed debate and actions to respond to population issues and Nepali women's empowerment in the face of climate change. The call comes with the release of the UNFPA's report on State of World Population 2009. “This is a vital time in Nepal to re-invigorate the debate and identify the actions needed to respond to population issues and women's empowerment in the face of climate change. We hope the report will contribute to the debate,” said UNFPA Representative in Nepal Ian McFarlane. Read: The Kathmandu Post
NICARAGUA: El Nuevo Diario and La Prensa reported 17 – 19 November on the release of the SWOP report, and UNFPA representative Junko Sazaki spoke on the report’s implications for Nicaragua. Read in Spanish: El Nuevo Diario and La Prensa
PAKISTAN: Multiple media outlets reported 18 - 20 November on the release of the UNFPA SWOP Report and the Pakistan Supplement. Secretary of Environment, Kamran Lashari said UNFPA's report will be a crucial platform for raising awareness about the significance of climate change as Pakistan works to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. Federal Minister for PopulationWelfare Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said that continuouspopulation growth would multiply impacts of climate change aroundthe globe, therefore, engagement of all stakeholders be ensured tocope with this challenge. "Involvement of all the stakeholders including policy makers,decision makers, parliamentarians, civil society and media, in anon-going debate on how to understand, slow down and mitigate the effects of climate change is essential," the Minister said while addressing a report launching ceremony. Daily Times, Daily Times
PANAMA: La Estrella reported 19 - 20 November on the release of the SWOP report, as well as UNFPA Panama representative Laura Flores’ remarks ont the report’s implications for Panama. Read in Spanish: La Estrella (20 November) and La Estrella (19 November)
PARAGUAY: Multiple media outlets reported and published UNFPA’s statement 18 – 22 November on the SWOP report release. Read in Spanish: SC Noticias,
PERU: Multiple media outlets reported 18 – 19 November on the release of the SWOP report in Lima, including remarks by UNFPA representative Esteban Caballero Carrizosa. Read in Spanish: Agencia Press, Andina, RPP
THE PHILIPPINES: GMA News reported 18 November that Suneeta Mukherjee, country representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), said women should be empowered by contraceptive use as it ensures their health. “(The debate about women’s use of contraceptives is) not about sex or promiscuity but being able to control their lives," Mukherjee said during the UNFPA launch of its annual State of World Population Report in Pasay City. The report carried the theme: “Facing a changing world: women, population and climate." Read: GMA News
THE PHILIPPINES: Malaya Business Insight reported 18 November that faster population growth aggravates climate change because more people mean more green house gas emissions, according to UNFPA’s State of World Population Report 2009. As population increases, the study said, economies and consumption outpace the earth’s capacity to adjust, making climate change effects more extreme. "Green house gas emissions would not be accumulating so hazardously had the number of earth’s inhabitants not increased so rapidly, but remained at 300 million people, the world population of 1,000 years ago, compared with 6.8 billion today," the report said. Read: Malaya Business Insight
THE PHILIPPINES: The Business Mirror reported 18 November that the United Nations has reiterated its warning to countries with rapid population growth such as the Philippines to adopt reproductive-health policies to prevent their populations from suffering a harsher impact of disasters linked to climate change.
UNFPA launched the “State of the World Population” report highlighting women, mostly in poor and developing countries, that it said are the “most vulnerable to suffer from the impact of climate change because they make up the larger share of agricultural work force and do not have much access to income-earning opportunities than men.” Read: The Business Mirror
THE PHILIPPINES: The Philippine Star reported 18 November that women in less developed economies that are less able to cope with the impact of climate change are the most vulnerable to hunger and disease due to the difficult roles they assume in homes, farms and workplaces, according to the annual report of the UNFPA. UNFPA Country Representative for the Philippines Suneeta Mukherjee presented the 2009 State of the World Population Report which focuses this year on population, women and climate change. Read: Philippine Star
PORTUGAL: Multiple media outlets reported 18 - 22 November on the launch of The State of World Population Report 2009, which was hosted by UNFPA Geneva Office Director Alanna Armitage who travels to Portugal solely for this occasion. The presentation is sponsored by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Co-operation (SENEC) João Gomes Cravinho. Health Secretary of State Manuel Pizarro, UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador Catarina Furtado, representatives of foreign embassies in Lisbon, official bodies, NGO’s and members of academic institutions will also attend the event. Some of the coverage distorted UNFPA’s work as promoting “population control.” Read: ISRIA and in Portuguese: PST, Jornal de Noticias, TVi24, Lusa,
QATAR: Qatar News Agency reported 20 November that the 94-page State of the World Population Report 2009, launched in London, urged world leaders to take into account improved access to family planning services in future discussions such as next month's UN climate change summit in Copenhagen. "There is still time ... to think creatively about population, reproductive health and gender equality and how these might contribute to a just and environmentally sustainable world," said the report. Read: Qatar News Agency
REPUBLIC OF KOREA: The Korea Herald reported 19 November that a report by UNFPA showed that the social and economic gap between the two Koreas is widening. According to the report titled, "The State of World Population 2009: Facing a changing world," South Korea's infant mortality per 1,000 live births was four, whereas North Korea recorded 47. The difference in maternal mortality rate per 100,000 live births was even more severe - 14 for the South and 370 for the North. Read: The Korea Herald
REPUBLIC OF KOREA: The Chosun Ilbo and Yonhap reported 19 November that South Korea still has one of the lowest birthrates in the world, according to a report released by UNFPA, through the Planned Population Federation of Korea (PPFK). The country's total birthrate was 1.22, following last year's lowest rate at 1.2. Read: The Chosun Ilbo
RUSSIA: Reuters reported 18 November that Russia toughened its plans to curb harmful greenhouse gas emissions, in a rare encouraging development before United Nations climate talks, noting that In its 2009 state of the world population report, UNFPA said the world's poor are the most vulnerable to climate change and the majority of the 1.5 billion people living on $1.0 a day or less are women. Read: Reuters
SIERRA LEONE: Awoko reported 20 November that, along with the launch of the SWOP report, and UNFPA in collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone, civil society and the media has intensified awareness raising campaign on the United Nations International Conference on Population Development in Sierra Leone to mark the 15 anniversary of ICPD. The UNFPA Country Representative Ratidzai Ndoluvu has reiterated that UNFPA is committed and determined to continue their support to the people and the Government of Sierra Leone in the improvement of health care delivery. Read: Awoko
SOUTH AFRICA: Voice of America reported 18 November that the United Nations says women, especially in less developed countries, are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. UNFPA delivered the warning in its annual report issued in South Africa. The Africa director of the UNFPA, Bunmi Makinwa, told reporters in Port Elizabeth women are especially susceptible to the consequences of climate change, which include water and food insecurity, disease and population migration. Read: Voice of America
SPAIN: El Mundo, Europa Press and Notimex (Mexico) reported 18 November on the release of the SWOP report in Madrid, quoting Rogelio Fernández Castilla, director of UNFPA’s division of technical assistance. Read in Spanish: El Mundo, Europa Press and Notimex
SWITZERLAND: ISRIA reported 20 November that the climate cannot be stabilised merely by technical solutions. Gender equality and the fight against poverty are complementary approaches that also need to be taken into account at the Copenhagen Climate Conference. This is the recommendation of the UN State of the World Population Report which was presented in Bern on Friday, with accompanying comments by SDC director, Mr. Dahinden. Read: ISRIA
SWITZERLAND: Multiple media outlets reported 18 November on the SWOP launch in Geneva, reporting on remarks by Werner Haug, director of UNFPA’s technical division, on the links among family planning, population growth and climate change. Read in German: SDA, SDA/AFP, SwissInfo, in French: ATS/Romandie, in Portuguese: EFE, in Spanish: EFE and EFE (b)
TANZANIA: The Daily News reported 20 November on key findings from the 2009 SWOP report and remarks by UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, who called for any treaty resulting from the upcoming global climate conference in Copenhagen, Denmark to take into account individuals’ power to reverse climate change.
TANZANIA: The African, The Daily News and The Guardian reported 18-19 November on the Dar Es Salaam release of the 2009 SWOP report, highlighting the impact of climate change on food scarcity in the country and on women around the world. UNFPA representative Julitta Onabanjo pointed out that women bear disproportionate burdens because they are responsible for the majority of agricultural work, as she argued for greater attention to women’s participation in efforts to combat climate change. Ms. Onabanjo was joined by Minister of State in The Vice President’s Office, Dr. Baltida Burian, in calling for policy change in Tanzania and around the world, beginning with a review of the treatment of gender in Tanzania’s poverty reduction strategies.
TANZANIA: The Citizen reported 16 November that, opening the pre-launching of the State of the World Population Report for 2009 titled: "Facing a Changing World: Women, Population and Climate Change," Dr Julitta Onabanjo, the UNFPA Country Representative, said people have the power to mitigate the effects of the climate change. Read: The Citizen
THAILAND: The Bangkok Post, Newsline and radio stations operated by the Ministry of Education and Chulalongkorn University reported and published interviews with UNFPA officials 18-23 November on the regional launch of the State of the World Population 2009 report. Nobuko Horibe, UNFPA Asia Pacific Regional Director, said slower population growth, for example, would help build social resilience to the impact of climate change and would contribute to a reduction of greenhouse-gas emissions in the future. Read: Bangkok Post
UAE: The National reported 22 November that The latest report on the effects of climate change concludes that those who have done the least to destabilise the environmental balance will suffer the most from its disruption. "Poor women in poor countries are among the hardest hit by climate change," says UNFPA. Hafedh Chekir, the Arab office director for the UNFPA told The National that he hoped the report's publication would accelerate a policy debate on the problems facing the Arab world. Read: The National
UNITED KINGDOM: The Times reported 20 November that investing in birth control to reduce port predicted that the global population could reach 10.5 billion by 2050, up from 6.8 billion today, unless urgent action was taken to reduce fertility rates. It said that even its mediumgrowth forecast of 2.3 billion more people by 2050, which assumes a fall in average fertility from 2.56 to 2.02 children per woman, would make it much harder to achieve the cuts in carbon emissions needed to prevent catastrophic climate change. UNFPA predicted that population growth could be more effective in cutting greenhouse gas emissions than building wind turbines or nuclear power stations, according to a United Nations report. Read: The Times
UNITED KINGDOM: The Times published an opinion piece 20 November by Bronwen Maddox arguing, “There are many global problems in which the United States is painted as prime villain; there are not many where Iran is also hailed as the solution. But finding ways to make the world's population grow more slowly is one of those rare cases because of the recurrent coyness of the US about promoting contraception, and the ayatollahs' sure-footedness in doing just that. Suddenly, population control is back in the spotlight, after 30 years in which it has been taboo. This year's State of the World's Population report, by the United Nations Population Fund, does not help as much as it might.” Read: The Times
UNITED KINGDOM: The Times reported 19 November that women have a lower carbon footprint than men but are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of global warming, according to the United Nations’ State of World Population report. Women drive and fly much less than men and purchase fewer carbon intensive goods. The research found that women in industrialized countries were more likely to buy ecologically friendly and organic foods, were more likely to recycle rubbish and more interested in efficient energy use. Read: The Times
UNITED KINGDOM: Channel 4 reported 18 November that “Do not go forth and multiply” is the conclusion of the UN's world population report, which says educating women may be the key to cutting carbon emissions. The report from UNFPA warns that poor women in developing countries are among the hardest hit by global warming and more likely to die in natural disasters than men. Read: Channel 4
UNITED KINGDOM: AOL News UK reported 18 November that international efforts to tackle climate change are more likely to succeed if women are given access to education and services such as family planning, a UN study has shown. The report from UNFPA warned that poor women in developing countries were among the hardest hit by global warming and were more likely to die in natural disasters than men. Read: AOL News UK
UNITED KINGDOM: The Earth Times reported 18 November that women must be empowered to combat climate change through better availability of contraception to slowdown population growth, UNFPA said in a new report. The 94-page State of the World Population Report 2009, launched in London, urged world leaders to take into account improved access to family planning services in future discussions such as next month's UN climate change summit in Copenhagen. Read: Earth Times and Earth Times
UNITED KINGDOM: ENS reported 18 November that women are central to global and national efforts to cope with climate change, concludes a new report, "The State of World Population 2009," by the United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA. Climate change is more than an issue of energy efficiency or industrial carbon emissions; it is also an issue of population dynamics, poverty and gender equity, the report points out. The authors predict that the fight against climate change is more likely to be successful if policies, programmes and treaties take into account the needs, rights and potentials of women. Read: ENS
UNITED KINGDOM: The Telegraph reported 18 November that UNFPA said if women are empowered to take control of their reproductive health they may choose to have fewer children, reducing pressure on resources and the environment. "Slower population growth would help build social resilience to climate change's impacts and would contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions," it reads. Read: The Telegraph
UNITED STATES: Women’s eNews published commentary by Anushay Hossain 19 November that climate change is already having a disproportionate impact on women, concluded the UNFPA’s "The State of World Population 2009," which focuses on women, population and climate change, also says that women have been largely overlooked in the debate on how to address climate change-related problems, and that success in combating this concern is more likely if policies, programmes and treaties consider women's rights and needs. Read: Women’s eNews
UNITED STATES: The New Republic reported 19 November, is climate change gender-neutral? Not according to UNFPA, which released a report arguing that women suffer disproportionately from the impacts of global warming. Read: The New Republic
UNITED STATES: Talk Radio News Service reported 18 November that a report entitled: State of World Population 2009, was released today by the UN’s Population Fund (UNFPA). The report says boosting support to women can be the changing factor in tackling global warming. It underscores that better reproductive health care and improved relations between women and men can make or break the fight against climate change. Read: Talk Radio News Service
UNITED STATES: Treehugger reported 18 November that the latest UNFPA report says that an important component in combatting climate change is limiting population growth. Explicitly stating that limits on number of children should not be considered, the report instead says improving women's access to family planning services and contraceptives, and assuring that low income is no barrier to access, is crucial. Read: Treehugger
VIET NAM: Multiple media outlets reported on 19 and 20 November that UNFPA in Viet Nam and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) held a ceremony to launch The State of World Population 2009 report, themed “Facing a changing world: Women, Population, Climate”. Addressing the ceremony, Bruce Campbell, UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam, said the whole world was talking about carbon credits, carbon trading and emissions targets, “but hardly anyone has been talking about the people whose activities contribute to those emissions or about those affected by climate change.” He said it was important that the climate change debate is reframed, putting people at the center. “Climate policies that fail to take people, especially women, into account will neither make climate change manageable nor shield anyone from the potentially disastrous impacts,” Read the news in English: Thanh Nien daily, Viet Nam News, Nhan Dan, Viet Nam Communist Party, Viet Nam Net, The Nation and in Vietnamese:An Ninh Thu Do, Bao Dien Tu, Cong An, Cong Thuong, Dat Viet, Family and Society, Hanoi Moi (20 November), Hanoi Moi (19 November), Ho Chi Minh City Women, Industry and Trade, Nhan Dan, Propaganda and Education, Thanh Tra, Viet Nam Communist Party, Viet Nam Plus, VN Media, VNN
YEMEN: Saba Net reported 18 November on the release of the UNFPA State of The World Population Report. Read in Arabic: Saba Net
ZAMBIA: The Post reported 20 November that UNFPA representative Duah Owusu-Sarfo has said the effect of climate change is capable of reversing the hard- earned development gains of the past decades, thus slowing down the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). And tourism minister Catherine Namugala said the increase in population has caused an increase in demand for goods and services. Read: The Post
ZAMBIA: The Lusaka Times reported 19 November that UNFPA Country Representative Duah Owusu-Sarfo says climate change threatens to deepen poverty levels and increase the suffering of already burdened and vulnerable groups of women and children. Mr. Owusu-Sarfo said the impact of climate change reveals that men and women are affected differently and that women are most vulnerable to the suffering brought about by climate change. Read: Lusaka Times