OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Village Leaders in Gaza Attend Workshop on Combating Gender-based Violence
Multiple media outlets on 22 October reported on the 3-day workshop that targeted 25 of the makhateers in Gaza (high post of village leaders dominated by male figures), health providers and community institutions. The recommendation of the workshop was to work together to train women from various intellectual trends of the Palestinian society and to create coalitions where women can work side by side with the makhateer in order to end gender-based violence (GBV) and domestic violence.
The training focused on the GBV concept, legislative system in Palestine, rights of women in Islam, and declarations on prevention of violence against women. “Studies showed that battered women usually turn to immediate family members for shelter and protection. In partnership with WISAL, UNFPA funded this workshop in order to support groups to empower women in consistency with the traditions and international conventions” said UNFPA's Osama AbuEita. Read in Arabic: PNN , Al-Quds Net, Al-Ahd Network and Shasha network
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: First MDG-F Seminar Targeting High Level Journalists
Al-Quds on 6 September reported on the workshop entitled “Millennium Development Goals in oPt” that was held in cooperation between the Ministry of Women' Affairs and UNFPA, under the MDG-F. The workshop targeted influential media pioneers.
In their speeches, H.E. Ms. Rabiha Diab, Minister of Women’s Affairs, Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative, Mr. Mahmoud Ataya, Ministry of Planning and Administrative Development, and Mr. Ameen Asi, Ministry of Women’s Affairs, underlined the importance of a Palestinian's society free from violence and empowerment of women. “We, Palestinians, still have a long way in achieving the MDG goals. We want our society to enjoy gender equality, and have social justice” Ms. Diab said. “The role of the media is crucial in changing the stereotypes towards women in Palestine, and work together towards gender equality” she continued. However, Ms. Piazza-Georgi enlightened the participants with the millennium development goals where world leaders back in 2000 committed themselves to achieving these goals by 2015. Read in Arabic: Alquds
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Football Match to Affirm Gender Equality and Women Empowerment
Multiple media outlets reported on 31 August on the football match held between two female teams, Al-Ru’a and Al-Diyar, which took place on 30 August in the presence of H.E. Ms. Rabiha Diab, Minister of Women’s Affairs, Mr. Jibreel Rjoub, Secretary General of Higher Council for Youth and Sports, and Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative, as well as staff of sister UN agencies and their family members. The football match was held under the MDG-F Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Programme that is funded by the Government of Spain and a joint initiative implemented by six UN agencies. “Having 18 female football teams in Palestine echoes the gender equality and the just Palestinian society” Mr. Rjoub said. “The Executive Office of the Football Association will include three female members, a confirmation that the formulation of youth and sports frameworks gives women equal opportunities” he continued. “Both the vision and the strategy of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs is gender mainstreaming in all walks of life, including sports, including football, that sends a message to the world at large of the sacrifices and the important role of the Palestinian women” H.E. Ms. Diab said.
“The purpose of the football match is to raise awareness in achieving gender equality and empower women socially, politically and economically” Mr. Hanna Nakhleh, MDG Programme Manager said. “This is an effort to change stereotypes about the role of women by highlighting the success in having a female football team, at a time when this game was restricted to males” he continued. Read in Arabic: alqudspage27 alquds newspaper maan news panet Al-ayyam WAFA Alhayat Al-jadeedah PNN
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Youth Friendly Health Services Assessed
Multiple media outlets reported on 26 July on the workshop that took place on 25 July in Ramallah to present the Assessment of Youth Friendly Health Services Needs in West Bank, 2011, implemented by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS), in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and UNFPA.
“The study showed that 40.4% of the youth in the West Bank are in need of mental health services rather than physical health services,” stated Ms. Ola Awad, President, PCBS, “while 24,1% believe that physical health services are more important, than nutrition services (19%)." She added, "This study was conducted on youth ages 15 – 24, is intended to view the type and scope of health services that are provided to youth, actual needs for services from their own perspectives, as well as the perspectives of service providers and key informants at the community level and recommendations on how health services can be adapted to better meet youth health needs while also focusing on youth-friendly service provision."
Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative, assured everyone that UNFPA considers youth one of the important sectors in Palestinian society that should be looked at from a comprehensive point of view. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds, PCBS website and al-ayyam
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.”
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Palestinian Authority Contribution to UNFPA
Al-Ayyam on 5 July reported on the meeting between H.E. Dr. Riyad Malki, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA representative. The purpose of the meeting was to hand over, by Dr. Malki, a cheque in the amount of $5,000 from the PNA to UNFPA. “Realizing the vital role UNFPA plays in oPt,” Dr. Malki said in his press release, “despite the financial difficulties the Palestinian Authority is going through.” Ms. Piazza-Georgi expressed her gratitude and appreciation and considered it to be “a historic moment when Palestine contributes to development at the global level, despite the difficulties of the PNA” she commented. Read in Arabic: Al-Ayyam
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Opening of Al-Harazeen Maternal Hospital in Gaza
Multiple media outlets reported on 25 June on the official opening ceremony of one of UNFPA’s investments in Gaza “Hasan Al-Harazeen Maternal Hospital” funded by UNFPA in occupied Palestinian territory and implemented by UNDP/PAPP, with senior officials from the PA, UN sister agencies, and national partners present in this huge ceremony. “300 thousand inhabitants from the eastern part of the Gaza City alone will benefit from the services that Al-Harazeen Maternal Hospital will provide. The Hospital is already receiving patients, pregnant women where they can be treated with dignity and respect, and with excellent staff and medical equipment” Dr. Naem Sabra said. “Al-Shifa Hospital, located in the north of Gaza, is the only hospital where pregnant women can be referred, and receives 18 thousand delivery cases on a yearly basis, while Al-Harazeen Maternal Hospital will now reduce the heavy burden Al-Shifa Hospital is facing especially on the maternity ward.” Dr. Sabra continued. Read in Arabic: Safa
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Maternal Mortality Workshop in Qalqilya
PANET on 20 June reported on the maternal mortality workshop held under the patronage of the Palestinian Medical Relief Committee and funded by UNFPA. Dr. Khadeja Jarrar, in her speech and detailed presentation, underlined the importace of the partnership between the health sector and the civil society institutions, basing her argument from the human rights perspective. She also presented facts and figures on maternal mortality worldwide and in Palestine, its impact, the challenges to reducing maternal mortality in Palestine, and, most importantly, raising women’s awareness of the importance of pre and post natal care. Read in Arabic: PANET
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Refined Honour Killing Law
PANET on 20 June reported on a refined law against honour killings endorsed by President Mahmoud Abbas – Abu Mazen. Gaza has recently witnessed a number of honour killings, some of which occurred because of weak legal consequences. A discussion was held between 20 institutions working under the Culture and Free Thought Association, through a project that is funded by UNFPA. Participants welcomed this positive step from Abu Mazen. “There is a dire need to work harder to ensure the implementation of Presidential Decree and advocate and put pressure towards a final and just decision to be taken by the Legislative Council against honour killings,” Osama Abueita, UNFPA Coordinator in Gaza, said. “Institutions should organize awareness campaigns on violence against women with the community, define penal law, and work for the provision of protection systems for battered women,” he continued. Read in Arabic: PANET
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: UNFPA Continue to Support Cultural Initiatives
Multiple media outlets reported on 14 December on UNFPA’s continued support to youth, this time through the Sharek Youth Forum, by assisting young intellectuals and artists in various fields and topics, such as poetry and literature through the Darwish Fund another initiative of Be the Change. “UNFPA encourages youth ages 18 – 29 to pursue aspirations of writing poetry, novels, or through art, producing documentaries of cultural nature, and through music,” Mr. Bader Zamareh, Sharek Executive Director, said.
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: SWOP launched in the Gaza Strip
Multiple media outlets reported on 14 December on launching of the State of World Population Report 2011 that took place in Gaza, an event that was funded by UNFPA. “Population in Palestine is increasing” Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative, said. “Population in Gaza is 1.6 million, and the number will increase by the 2025, which will impose a great challenge that needs to be addressed through providing needed services” she continued. Read in Arabic: Alquds, MILAD, Bab Alarab, Al Haya, Refugees Affairs, Maan, Amad, Quds Net, Panet, AlHurriah, Al Ikhbarya
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Midwifery job description workshop
Media outlets reported on 13 December on the midwifery job description workshop that was organized by the Ministry of Health and funded by UNFPA. “Maternal mortality rate can be decreased with good midwifery practices and performances” H.E. Dr. Fathi Abou Moghli, Minister of Health (MoH), said. "In Palestine from 1990 – 2010, and according to World Bank statistics, the mm rate was recorded at 92/100,000 deaths, and according to MoH statistics in 2010 it was 32/100,000 deaths” he continued. “We are hoping to bring this figure down by 2015 since maternal health is one of the MDGs ” he said. Read in Arabic: Alquds
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Al-Najah National University organizes annual film festival
Media outlets reported on 12 December on the film festival celebrations that were organized by the Media Department at the An- Najah National University in Nablus, in coordination with the Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy (MIFTAH) and funded by UNFPA as part of the project activity entitled “Gender Equity and Protection.” “This year’s festival focuses on violence again women. Women in Palestine play a crucial role; she’s the mother, the worker, educator and freedom fighter ” Dr. Rami Hamdallah, President of An-Najah University said. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds, Najah, and MIFTAH
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: GBV Campaign in Jericho
Al-Ayyam reported on 11 December about the festival on GBV as part of the 16-day campaign to combat violence against women, which was organized on 10 December by MIFTAH in Jericho and funded by UNFPA. Attendees included womens’ organizations, journalists, and senior officials. Read in Arabic: Al-Ayyam
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: GBV Workshop by Ministry of Health
AL-QUDS Newspaper reported on 9 December on the 2-day GBV workshop organized in Nablus by Women’s Health Development Directorate/Ministry of Health (WHDD/MoH) and targeted employees from the different directorates from the MoH. The workshop emphasized on what is GBV and the different forms of violence, their affect and the role of health providers in combating GBV. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds
Palestinian Violence Survey results launched
Multiple outlets reported on 6 December on the violence survey results launched by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) in corporation with MDG Project, UNFPA and UNICEF. “The Survey indicates the number of women, children, youth male and others, who are subjected to different kinds of violence” Ms. Ola Awad, President, PCBS said. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Polygamy control!
AL-QUDS Newspaper reported on 2 December on the film entitled “Sour Bread” that discussed polygamy. The discussion brought together religious leaders, womens’ organizations, coalitions, and journalists and organized by The Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy (MIFTAH), an activity that is funded by UNFPA entitled “Security and Equality from a Gender Perspective”. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds Newspaper
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: World AIDS Day and GBV campaigns
Multiple outlets reported on 2 December on the World AIDS Campaign and GBV celebrations that was organized by the Ministry of Health and An-Najah National University, respectively, both funded by UNFPA, which took place at An-Najah National University in Nablus. “We, at the UN HIV/AIDS Theme Group, are in close contact with the Ministry of Health and National AIDS Committee to combat AIDs in Palestine” Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative and UN HIV/AIDs Chair said. On the other hand, the GBV campaign that was also launched at An-Najah National University was a collaborative initiative by UN agencies and the Community Service Center as they put their efforts to combat GBV in Palestine. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds, An Najah National University
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Daleel (Manual) of Adolescent Health Training of Trainers
Al-Quds on 25 November reported that through funds from UNFPA, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education/Bethlehem Directorate, organized a 3-day Training of Trainers (ToT) which targeted employees from school health employees and counselors from southern and central directorates. “The issues which were discussed during the workshop were based on counselor’s needs that we identified through distributing forms amongst them” Ms. Insaf Omar, Project Coordinator, said. “We underlined a great importance on the Manual since it is beneficial to all youth in Palestine and helps raise their awareness” Dr. Sami Marwa, Director General/Bethlehem Directorate, said. Other similar ToT will take place in the future. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: National Monitoring System related to Youth Indicators Workshop
Al-Ayyam on 25 November reported that the Ministry of Youth and Sports, UNFPA and UNICEF organized the National Monitoring System related to Youth Indicators workshop in Ramallah on 24 November. “The goal of this workshop is to contribute in “shaping” the future of youth in Palestine” Mr. Masalmeh, Director General at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, said. “The monitoring system is an important tool to determine youth needs, develop national indicator” Ziad Yaish, Assistant Representative, said. “We have identified four goals to help us strengthen youth roles in the society and enhance the quality of proposed programmes. At the end of this workshop, we will identify recommendations to agree on monitoring and evaluation indicators to monitor progress and support our future planning,” he continued. Read in Arabic: Al-Ayyam
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: “Be the Change” Project Launched
Multiple media outlets reported on 15 November that the Sharek Youth Forum, in cooperation with UNFPA, will start the implementation of Phase I of its new project “Be the Change,” a series of 50 community-based initiatives in the West Bank entitled “towards the participation of the youth.” Its goal is to promote leadership targeting volunteers, new graduates, and the unemployed. “The purpose of the workshops is to promote youth involvement in their communities, encourage creativity in order to reduce the gap between them and their social environment, by supporting their individual and collective initiatives”, Mr. Adel Saba’neh, Project Coordinator, said. Read in Arabic: Alquds and SHAREK
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON RELEASE OF STATE OF WORLD POPULATION 2011 REPORT
BRAZIL: Multiple TV news programs covered the launch of SWOP and the day of 7 billion between 26 and 31 October. View in Spanish: Jornal Hoje, Jornal da Globo, Bom Dia Brasil and Jornal Globo News, Jornal Nacional and Jornal Hoje
CAMBODIA: The Phnom Penh Post reported on 1 November that as the world’s population hits seven billion, the latest statistics from the UN Population Fund’s State of the Population report show the number of Cambodians decreased by five per cent in the past year. The report puts the total population of Cambodia at 14.3 million compared with 15.1 million in 2010.
COMOROS: La Gazette on 2 November reported that At the current pace of growth, 78 million people are added annually to the world's population. "This population is recorded for a large part in the least developed countries, some of which are already struggling to meet the needs of their populations," said the Resident Coordinator System UN Comoros, at the launch of report on the State of World Population 2011
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Tele-Pointe-Noire, Radio-Pointe-Noire Agence d'Information Congolaise, and Africa No. 1 reported on 2 November on a press conference by UNFPA Representative David Lawson in Pointe-Noire, to present the UNFPA 2011 State of the World Population, the 7 billion people milestone and its implications for Congo. Mr. Lawson talked on some global challenges, the fight against poverty and hunger through economic growth and investments in agriculture, environmental protection, urbanization, youth employment and social policies to address ageing and support vulnerable populations, development aid, and combating inequalities, including among women and men, valid and disabled.
La Semaine africaine reported on 2 November on the UNFPA SWOP launch in Brazzaville by UNFPA Representative David Lawson, in the presence of the State Economy Minister Pierre Moussa, 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 world. Mr. Lawson outlined the challenges and opportunities at such a milestone for the world and Congo. He thus focused on urbanization, youth, ageing, agriculture, health and education and financing for development. The State Economy Minister outlined the Government policies implemented to address the challenges of global demographic growth. Read in French: La Semaine africaine
CUBA: Between 31 October and 6 November, Cuban media reported activities related to the arrival of the planet to the 7 billion people and the launching of The State of World Population 2011, pointing out some of its most important aspects. Read and View in Spanish: Cuba TV, Sitio Web del Sistema Informativo de la TV Cubana, Cuba TV, Sitio Web del Sistema Informativo de la TV Cubana, Mujeres, Publicación semanal, Cuba Sí (Tomado de la Agencia de Información Nacional), Radio Surco (Tomado de la Agencia de Información Nacional), La Demajagua digital, Prensa Latina, GIS XXI, Radio Reloj, Solvisión, Cuba Vision, Juventud Rebelde, Radio Rebelde, IPS, IPS, Granma, Periódico 26, Asociación Cubana de las Naciones (ACNU).
DPR OF KOREA: The Korean Central News Agency on 1 November and Pyongyang Times on 5 November reported on the UNFPA country office advocacy event celebrating the day of 7 billion and the release of the State of World Population report. The event was held at Yanggakdo International Hotel in Pyongyang. Participants viewed the video, “United World.”
FINLAND: Multiple, web, radio and broadcasting media outlets reported on the world of 7 billion referring to the State of World Population report and UNFPA between 23 and 31 October. Most of the articles conveyed a balanced message on challenges and possibilities related to population dynamics. Local partners including Ministry of Foreign Affairs and national UN Associations, who participated in organizing the launch events, also published information about the SWOP launch events. Read, view and listen in Finnish: Helsingin Sanomat, Helsingin Sanomat, Maailma, Hufvudstadsbladet, YLE, Finnish Broadcasting Services, MTV3, Nelonen, Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Global Finland portal, UNA-Finland, Väestöliitto-Finnish Family Planning Association
GUATEMALA: Prensa Libre on 31 October published an op-ed by Carolina Vasquez Araya which quoted figures provided by the UNFPA during the launch of The State of World Population 2011 which revealed that of the 14,713,000 people in Guatemala, 7.4 million are poor, and of these, 2.2 million people survive in abject poverty. 75 percent of the Maya, Garifuna and Xinca are living in poverty, and most women are excluded from the benefits of development. Read in Spanish Prensa Libre
GUYANA: The Guyana Chronicle on 1 November reported on the launch of the SWOP report at the Georgetown Club. Ms. La Fleur was a featured speaker at the event. Read in English: Guyana Chronicle
JAMAICA: Multiple media outlets reported on 31 October to 5 November on the State of World Population report launch in Jamaica. Read in English: Jamaica Information Service, Jamaica Information Service, Jamaica Information Service, Jamaica Observer, Jamaica Observer, The Gleaner and TV Jamaica
LEBANON: The Daily Star reported on 31 October on the 7 billion Campaign. The article adopts a global approach and describes UNFPA’s campaign and its main themes. The article provides global statistics illustrating population trends and quotes UN Secretary general and UNFPA Executive Director and mentions the 2011 State of World Population Report. Read in English: Daily Star.
MONGOLIA: Multiple media outlets from 26 October to 31 October reported on the release of the State of World Population 2011. The UB Post, Mongol Messenger and Unuudur printed the statement of UNFPA Mongolia Representative Ms. Argentina Matavel Piccin. The Mongol News Press broadcast the press conference to launch SWOP. Mr. S. Mendsaikhan, Chairman of the National Statistics Office, Ms. Argentina Matavel Piccin, UNFPA Representative, Ms. B. Oyun, UNFPA NPO and Mr. A. Amarbal, Chairman of the Census Bureau participated in the press conference.
NAMBIA: The Nambian on 1 November published an article on the challenges and opportunities facing a world of seven billion. The SWOP report is briefly mentioned in the article saying that the report, “report highlights how the world will face growing problems finding jobs for the new army of young people, especially in poor countries. It also sounds alarms over how climate change and population growth are adding to drought and famine crises; the management of megacities like Tokyo; and ageing populations such as Europe’s.” Read in English: The Namibian
NORWAY: Multiple, web, radio and broadcasting media outlets reported on the world of 7 billion referring to the State of World Population report and UNFPA between 23 and 31 October. Most of the articles conveyed a balanced message on challenges and possibilities related to population dynamics. These stories included quotes from UNFPA Exexutive Director Babatunde Osotimehin and Rep. Mr. Rune Fröseth and citings of UNFPA data. Information about the SWOP launch events was also published by local partners including Ministry of Foreign Affairs and national UN Associations, who participated in organizing the launch events.Read, view and listen in Norwegian: Bistandsaktuelt, Adressa.no, Pd.no, Hadeland, Arbeits rett, Vestby avis,Ringblad.no, Namdalsavisen, Hordaland, Demokraten, FVN.no, Smp.no, Agder posten,Tidens Krav ,Glåm dalen, Dagsavisen, Dagbladet, Aftenposten, ABCNyheter, TV2 News, Dagsavisen, Aftenposten, ABCNyheter, Dagsavisen, Hegnar online, Dagbladet, TV2 News, NRK Norwegian national TV, NRK, Dagsavisen/TV daily news, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Press release, UNA-Norway
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Multiple media outlets reported on 2 November on the press conference, organized by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) and UNFPA on the occasion of the launching of the “State of World Population Report 2011” by UNFPA and “The State of Palestinian Population Report” by PCBS. The press conference touched various issues related to population through history and projections until 2025. “UNFPA expects population growth until 2050. The increase is especially noticed in Gaza Strip as 1.7m live in Gaza in a 360 km2 area; the world’s most populated area” said Ms. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA Representative. “In the next 20 years, the figure is expected to double in Gaza alone” she continued. The press conference was followed by an exhibition that was organized by Sharek Youth Forum and funded by UNFPA entitled “Palestine in the world of Seven Billion: Faces & Numbers" which was a display of Palestinian faces from different sects of the population, and facts about the Palestinian population on various indicators. Read in Arabic: Wafa News Agency, Maan News, Panet, Al Arab, Al Ayyam Newspaper, Manar Radio, PalToday, Al-Quds Newspaper
RWANDA: Imvaho Nshya and New Times on 1 November reported on the launch of SWOP 2011. UN Resident Coordinator, Aurélien Agbénonci,is quoted in the piece saying “The issue of the ‘World at 7 billion’ entails concerns of poverty and inequality, women and girls, young people, reproductive health and rights, environment, aging and urbanization.”
SIERRA LEONE: New Vision on 4 November reported that the Administrative Manager for Statistics Sierra Leone (SSL) disclosed to journalists that the UNFPA Country Representative, Md. Ratidzai Ndhlovu is most outstanding in the fight for women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone. Mr. Ahmed Saybon Kanu agreed with the UNFPA Rep. in her speech on the launch of the World Population Report for women’s protection and empowerment. On the issue of population growth in the world at seven billion, Mr. Kanu said population growth is critical for humanity adding that the population question is one of human equity and opportunity that is evaluated along sustainable development lines.
New Citizen on 3 November reported that the Administrative Manager of Statistics Sierra Leone (SSL) has, on behalf of SSL, acclaimed the UNFPA through the Country Representative for being the leading financier of SSL.
Addressing journalists and a cross section of SSL staff at its headquarters on Tuesday 1 November, Mr. Ahmed Saybon Kanu re-echoed the speech of the UNFPA Country Representation during the launch of the World Population Report which among others underscored that the global population reached 7 billion on 31 October. According to Mr. Kanu, the pace of population growth is both a challenge and an opportunity for Sierra Leone to continue and even strengthen its free health care delivery service within the framework of the Agenda for Change with support from UNFPA and other development partners.
SWEDEN: Multiple, web, radio and broadcasting media outlets reported on the world of 7 billion referring to the State of World Population report and UNFPA between 23 and 31 October. Most of the articles conveyed a balanced message on challenges and possibilities related to population dynamics. These included a joint Op-Ed Babatunde Osotimehin and Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation Ms. Gunilla Carlsson, an interview with ED Babatunde Osotimehin, an interview with UNFPA demographer Ralph Hakkert, and an interview with Mr. Heimo Laakkonen of UNFPA. Information about the SWOP launch events was also published by local partners including Ministry of Foreign Affairs and national UN Associations, who participated in organizing the launch events. Read, view and listen in Swedish: Dagens Industri, Dagens Nyheter, Dagens Nyheter; Svenska Dagbladet, Svenska Dagbladet, Dagens Nyheter, Svenska Dagbladet, Göteborgsposten, Swedish National TV News Services, Svenska Dagbladet, Expressen, Sydsvenska Dagbladet, Aftonbladet, Göteborgsposten, Swedish National TV News Service, Sveriges Radio Dagens Eko, Sveriges Radio Dagens Eko; Sveriges Radio Dagens Eko; Sveriges Radio Dagens Eko, Sveriges Radio Sisuradio, Sveriges Radio Klartext, Sveriges Radio Studio Ett, Sveriges Radio P1-Morgon, Swedish National TV: SVT 1 Rapport, TV4 Nyheterna, Ministry for Foreign Affairs: SWOP launch, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Minister Carlsson’s speech, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Press release, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Joint Op Ed Babatunde Osotimehin and Minister Carlsson, UNA-Sweden: SWOP launch, RFSU-Swedish Family Planning Association: SWOP launch
TAJIKISTAN: Avesta.Tj on 31 October reported that according to The State of World Population 2011 report, published by UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, on 31 October the world population reached the 7 billion mark. Read in Russian: Avesta.Tj
Khovar on 31 October reported on the birth of the country’s 7 billion baby and quoted statistics from the State of World Population 2011 report. Read in Russian: Khovar
Asia Plus on 31 October published a quote by UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin who said that achieving the seven billion population mark "may be considered a challenge, opportunity and a call for action." The article also used information for the SWOP 2011 report. Read in Russian: AsiaPlus
TIMOR-LESTE: Suara Timor Lorosae on 31 October announced the launch of the 2011 State of World Population Report and welcoming the 7 billionth baby in Timor-Leste at the Auditorium of the Dili National Hospital. The article also quoted the UNFPA ED in his message “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.”
The Dilli Weekly on 1 November covered the day of 7 billion as well as the launch of UNFPA’s State of World Population report. The story included a quote from UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin.
TUNISIA: Assabah, TAP Press Agency, MAP Press Agency, Binaa News Agency, Tunisie Numérique and Al Maghrib Al Siyasi, reported on 31 October, and 1 and 3 November that UNFPA launched the State of World Population 2011 report, entitled “People and possibilities in a world of 7 billion.” The articles provide an overview of the seven messages of the report, as well as global trends and population issues and mention the 7 Billion Campaign accompanying the launch of the report. Read in French: TAP, Tunisie Numérique Read in Arabic: Assabah
Hannibal TV, Nessma TV, Al Hiwar Al Tounisi and Télevion Nationale Tunisienne I broadcast on 2 November different statements quoted from the press conference organized in the United Nations Information Center in Tunis. The official presentation of the SWOP report was delivered by Assistant Representative of the UNFPA in Tunisia Dr. Leila Saiji Joudane. Dr. Joudane gave, in her opening speech, a summary presentation of the report components while emphasizing the potential of Tunisian youth. Watch in Arabic: TNT I, Nessma TV and Hannibal TV
Shems FM, Mosaique FM, Express FM, Radio Gafsa, RTCI and Radio Jeunes reported on 2 November the various interviews of Dr. Leila Saiji Joudane, Assistant Representative in Tunisia, who presented the SWOP report and the trends and population dynamics that define a world of 7 billion people advocating for additional investments in youth and increased participation of women and youth in all areas. She emphasized that reinforcing gender equality is essential to the world's future and that we cannot afford to lose the full potential of half the world’s population.
URUGUAY: Several media outlets reported on 31 October and 1 November that UNFPA presented, at the Pereira Rossell Hospital, the State of World Population 2011 analyzing population and demographic trends worldwide. Several media cited Fernando Filgueira, UNFPA’s assistant representative, on national demographic challenges including establishing mechanisms to ensure care services for dependant population groups (children 0-3, older people and people with disabilities) to unleash women’s participation in the workforce. In addition, the role of guaranteeing access to sexual and reproductive rights was reinforced. Read and watch more in Spanish: Canal 10, VTV (1), VTV (2), Oceano FM, Telégrafo
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Success Stories from MIFTAH
The Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy (MIFTAH), on 29 October reported that they are continuing to advocate and lobby for SCR 1325 and 1889, a project that is funded by UNFPA. The 8-day training session that was conducted by MIFTAH to introduce 1325 to 50 women from the West Bank was “both beneficial and comprehensive to the 50 participants who participated in the first ever summer camp conducted for women” said Najat, Head of Dweik Agricultural Cooperative. “Through fun activities and visits to springs in the valley women were able to understand their important roles in their own families as well as their rights.” Read in English: MIFTAH Read in Arabic: MIFTAH
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Artists Illustrate 7B Messages
Multiple media outlets reported on 16 October that 20 male and female artists joined efforts and drew paintings as well as key messages as part of the 7 billion action campaign that WISAL network through the Culture and Free Thought Association, funded by UNFPA, organized. The messages were clearly underlining the serious problems Gaza is facing as being the most condensed and highly populated area in the world. Drawings also embodied the suffering of women and young people with their dreams and aspirations towards a better future in a world of 7 billion. Read in Arabic: Qudsnet, Bokra, Kufur-Kassem, PANET, Palshabab, Al Youm Press, Aswar Press, Amad, Al Aahd, Fateh, Al Nahar News, Ekhbaryat, and Maan News
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Event Celebrating Elderly
Multiple media outlets reported on 5 October on the celebration entitled “A better Protection and Care for the Elderly” that took place in Jericho on 4 October on the occasion of International Day of the Elderly. This event was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) and funded by UNFPA. “A National Strategic Plan for the Care of the Elderly was formed by MoSA and funded by UNFPA. Its purpose is to issue a law that will ensure sustainability and protection of the elderly,” said Deputy Minister Mohammed Abu Hameed, “as well we are forming a high level national committee” he added. Read in Arabic: AlQuds and Al-Ayyam
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Results of Family Survey
Multiple media outlets reported on 12 September on the launching meeting which took place in Ramallah on 12 September announcing the results of the Palestinian Family Survey in the oPt. The survey was successfully conducted by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics in cooperation and partnership with the Ministry of Health, and financial and technical support from the UNFPA and UNICEF.
The sample population for the survey was 15,000 and many indicators were included such as child mortality, maternal health and fertility rate. A detailed analytical report will be published for each governorate separately. In her opening remarks Mrs. Barbara Piazza-Georgi, UNFPA oPt representative stressed the importance of the survey on a national level, as it gives baselines for development trends of the population’s health and dynamics. She praised the focus on women’s health, youth, children and the elderly, and appealed to everyone present to utilize the data extensively. Read in Arabic: Al-Quds Newspaper. Read in English: PCBS
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES: Health Providers In The Gaza Strip Receive Training on Gender-Based Violence
Multiple media outlets reported on 1 August on a training course that was conducted by Culture and Free Thought Association (CFTA) in the Gaza Strip, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and funded by UNFPA. “This training was the first of its kind targeting 30 health providers working in governmental and health institutions in the Gaza Strip, focusing on building and improving their capacity and knowledge on issues related to gender, women’ s rights and reproductive health,” Firyal Thabet, Director General, CFTA, said. “In July CFTA conducted two training courses. The trainees were specialists in the field of gender, addressing issues of importance to health providers. Over 30 trainees graduated” Ms. Thabet continued. Read in Arabic: Palestinian Press Agency ,Amad, Palestinian Shabab
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON WORLD POPULATION DAY AND YEAR OF SEVEN BILLION
GLOBAL: Science published a special issue on population dynamics on 29 July, which included an editorial by UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. He wrote, “As the world's population reaches 7 billion this year, we should reflect on the many ways in which population dynamics matter to the planet's future. Population growth patterns are linked to nearly every challenge confronting humanity, including poverty reduction, urban pollution, energy production, food and water scarcity, and health. With world population projected to surpass 9 billion by 2050, these issues and the desire to raise living standards at the same time will create a huge challenge. What immediate actions can be taken to deal with growth while ensuring a sustainable future for all of the world's inhabitants?” Read: Science
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: Start published an interview with UNFPA Assistant Representative Faris Hadrovic on 26 July in light of the recent World Population Day. Mr. Hadrovic reflected on world population changes and population changes in Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The role of education of women is very important, especially in countries with high birth rates. Women have access to services thanks to the UN, UNFPA and other organizations concerning issues of contraception, reproductive health, education and family planning," explained Mr. Hadrovic. Population trends in Bosnia and Herzegovina differ from Western European countries. Mr. Hadrovic noted the difference being that “BiH does not substitute its low birthrate with introduction of a new labor force, such as Germany or France do with opening borders for immigrants. We have no such influx and this will present a huge problem in the upcoming years since social expenditures will rise due to an aging population"
BRAZIL: Correio Braziliense reported on 29 July and published a brief interview with UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin as the global population comes close to seven billion, as predicted by the UN and experts published in Science debate whether the Earth is able to accommodate so many people. Dr. Osotimehin remarked on food scarcity, saying, "Often the problem is not production, but availability," he said. He said the current food production is sufficient to meet the needs of all people, and population growth will be followed by a natural evolution in farming techniques. The big challenge has always been dealing with inequality. Today, many regions have too much food, while others struggle with hunger. If nothing is done in the coming decades, inequality tends to be intensified." Read in Portuguese: Correio Braziliense (a) and Correio Braziliense (b)
COSTA RICA: Telenoticias broadcast a series of reports from 26 -28 July on global population growth and the “7 Billion Actions” campaign. "The issue is not only about having a place on the planet, but the footprint we leave on it, the access to services, the quality of life we’ll have, and our neighbors will have," said Patricia Salgado, UNFPA." Read in Spanish: Telenoticias, Telenoticias and Telenoticias. Watch in Spanish: Telenoticias (a), Telenoticias (b), Telenoticias (c), Telenoticias (d) and Telenoticias (e)
Radio Nacional reported on 27 July on global population growth and dynamics, including ageing, and the “7 Billion Actions” campaign. Listen in Spanish: Radio Nacional
JORDAN: Multiple media outlets reported on 26 July that on the occasion of World Population Day, and under the patronage of HRH Princess Basma Bint Talal, UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, the “State of Jordan’s Population 2010” was launched for the first time in Jordan. This report was prepared by the Higher Population Council in cooperation with UNFPA. The report is considered to be the first comprehensive report that sheds light the structure, characteristics and historical development of the status of the Jordanian population. The report included population projections at the national and provincial level for the period 2009-2050, which will contribute in determining the future of development policies that leads us to the demographic window and later on, if well invested, to the "demographic bonus.” The launch of the report coincided with the launch of the "7 Billion Actions” campaign. Read: Jordan Times Read in Arabic: Al Rai, Ad Dustour and Al Arab Al Yawm
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: Multiple media outlets reported on 27 July on a press conference that was organized in the Gaza Strip under the theme “Unleashing the power of women and girls will accelerate progress.” UNFPA Representative Barbara Piazza Georgi opened the conference with a statement that highlighted the challenges and opportunities in a world of seven billion, in addition to explaining the campaign’s objectives and themes. The Palestinian Bureau of Statistics provided an overview of the situation of the Palestinian population in 2011, followed by a statement on the situation of Palestinian women from the Culture and Free Thought Association, a long-standing partner of UNFPA. The conference was closed with an overview on the situation of the population in Gaza, provided by a national demographic expert. Read in Arabic: Ma'an News, Al Quds Net, Safa, Amad, PNN, Aswar Press, Al Sabah, Shehab and Palestine Now
UNITED STATES: Ms. published an op-ed by Suzanne Petroni on 29 July on the upcoming growth of the world population to seven billion, and highlighting the approach to population growth endorsed by the ICPD Programme of Action. She argued, “While the U.S. House vote to defund Planned Parenthood received much media attention earlier this year, similar attempts by House Republicans to defund the United Nations Population Fund have gone largely unnoticed. UNFPA works in some 150 countries, supporting programmes that help women deliver healthy babies and survive delivery, enable couples to determine the number and spacing of their children, reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, and end the harmful practice of female genital mutilation. The conservative excuse for defunding Planned Parenthood has been that part of the organization's mission is to provide safe abortions (although not with U.S. funds). But UNFPA, even though it doesn't promote or provide abortions, has still been the subject of a decades-long partisan game of ping-pong. Every Republican president since Ronald Reagan has withheld funding for this important agency, while every Democratic president has restored it. Employing the blatantly false pretext that UNFPA supports China's one-child policy and condones abortions and sterilizations, conservative politicians try to score points with their constituents, while the neediest women in the world suffer very real and tragic consequences.” Read: Ms.
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES: Jabalia Women’s Health Centre in Gaza conducts a Leadership Training
Al-Quds reported on 10 July on a leadership training organized by Jabalia Women’s Health Centre (JWHC) in Gaza, a centre that is funded through the generous contributions from the Government of Norway, through UNFPA, AIDOS and the EU respectively. “The purpose of this training is to invest in youth, create young leaders, develop leadership as well as problem solving and decision making skills, so they become leaders in their society” Mariam Shaqoura, Director General of JWHC said. “The Centre implemented 4000 services to include legal and psychological counseling, physiotherapy, dental services, and made 1200 home visits that provided all these services to families in their homes,” she continued. Read in Arabic: Al Quds
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY: UNFPA and Ibn Sina Midwifery College Organize National Midwifery Conference
Al-Quds reported on 9 June on a UNFPA-supported National Midwifery Conference entitled “Towards Unifying Midwifery Curriculum.” H.E. Dr. Fathi Abou Moghli, Minister of Health, assured the Ministry’s full support to midwifery in Palestine, while stressing the provision of all means and requirements that are necessary for unifying midwifery curriculum. “It is important to find efficient midwives, and standardize the midwifery curriculum in all universities and colleagues in line with the scientific and practical developments, and in parallel with the global curriculum” said UNFPA Representative Barbara Piazza-Georgi. “Good health is the right of every woman, pregnant woman, during her pregnancy and while delivering her child.” Read in Arabic: Al Quds