GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON WORLD POPULATION DAY, YEAR OF SEVEN BILLION
Al Jazeera reported on 11 July that the United Nations commemorates World Population Day against the backdrop of an upcoming landmark event: global population hitting the seven billion mark by late October this year. According to current projections, and with some of the world's poorest nations doubling their populations in the next decade, the second milestone will be in 2025 when the global population will reach eight billion. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of UNFPA, said seven billion represents a challenge, an opportunity and a call to action. On World Population Day, 11 July, he launches a campaign called "7 Billion Actions". "It will engage people on what it means to live in a world with seven billion people and encourage action on issues that affect all of us," he said. Together, he said, "we can forge the future with young people, advance rights for girls and women, and safeguard the natural resources on which we all depend." Read: Al Jazeera
UN News Centre reported on 11 July on World Population Day and statements by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon and UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. “We now have unprecedented capacity to share information and ideas, and engage communities across the globe to solve common problems. Reducing inequities and improving living standards for people alive today – as well as for generations to follow – will require new ways of thinking and unparalleled global cooperation. The moment to act is now,” said Dr. Osotimehin. Read: UN News Centre
ALGERIA: Horizons, El Moudjahid, Dans les Débats, El Watan and Afrique Hebdo reported on 11 and 12 July on events marking World Population Day in Algeria. Horizons featured an interview with Lindsay Edouard, UNFPA Representative in Algeria on the Fund's work and related population issues.
ANGOLA: Angola Press Agency reported on 11 July on World Population Day and its history. UNFPA began observing this day in 1989 as a means to create awareness on the importance of family planning, maternal health, gender equality, poverty, and human rights. Read: Angola Press Agency
ARMENIA: Public Radio of Armenia reported on 11 July that as the world population is expected to surpass seven billion, UNFPA and partners are launching a campaign called “7 Billion Actions.” It aims to engage people, spur commitment and spark actions related to the opportunities and challenges presented by a world of seven billion people. According to Garik Hayrapetyan, head of the UN Population Fund in Armenia, the population of the Earth totaled one billion in the year 1800, while in 200 years the number has increased to seven times that. Read: Public Radio of Armenia
AUSTRALIA: ABC Radio Australia published on 11 July an interview with UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin to mark World Population Day. Dr. Osotimehin said, “There are parts of the world where the population is growing faster than their economies can cope. And so there is a threat to security, there is threat to food security, there is unemployment and poverty and I think that that's something that we need to address. On the other hand, there are also parts of the world where the population is shrinking and in some developed countries and economies; there is an effort to rejuvenate those economies to be able to establish a productive base of young people to be able to carry through. So you have this balance, and I think that the policy initiatives in both circumstances differ. Whereas in the developing world, we are talking to member states to look after the education of young people, particularly young adults and girls, we're also talking about empowerment and ensuring that they have access to reproductive health, particularly family planning and so that they can make choices in their lives.” Read: ABC
BANGLADESH: The Daily Star published an op-ed by Md. Asadullah Khan on 16 July arguing “With the world population currently at 7 billion and UNFPA and its partners launching a campaign called "7 billion people -- 7 billion actions," it might be an achievement for the developed countries, but definitely a cause for worries for a land-starved and disaster-ridden country like Bangladesh. While observing the World Population Day this year with the slogan "Planned family, our pledges," stalwarts in administration and experts in population science cautioned that this unplanned growth of population would further complicate the process of meeting the demand for food, basic health requirements and educational facilities --triggering unemployment and social unrest.” Read: The Daily Star
BELARUS: TUT.BY reported on 11 July on Belarus’s celebration of World Population Day, which included an interview with UNFPA Programme Analyst Tatyana Haplichnik. Coverage also addressed the global youth population, which is the largest ever, and presentations on projects initiated and led by young people, as well as a performance by the musical group Open Space of the song “How Many People,” which was written to mark World Population Day. Read in Russian: Tut.by.
BOLIVIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 and 12 July on World Population Day and population dynamics in Bolivia. Coverage included interviews and statements by UNFPA Representative Jaime Nadal, who discussed global population growth and Bolivia’s ongoing economic development, as well as the importance of centreing young people in development planning. Read in Spanish: Cambio, Eju Tv, ERBOL, Prensa Grafica, Prensa Latina. Read in Portuguese: Prensa Latina
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on the Seven Billion Actions Campaign and World Population Day. However, as 11 July also marked the 16th anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre, most World Population Day activities in the country had been postponed for a later date. Read more in Bosnian: Sarajevo-x
BURKINA FASO: Sidwaya and Le Pays reported on 12 and 14 July on the commemorative ceremony of the World Population Day. In Burkina Faso World Population Day was celebrated under the theme "Challenges and opportunities of population growth in the Burkina Faso." The ceremony was chaired by the General Secretary of the Ministry of Economy and Finances representing his Minister, the Permanent Secretary of the National Council of Population and the Representative of UNFPA in Burkina Faso. During the ceremony, UNFPA Representative Mamadou Kanté presented remarks from UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. Read in French: Sidwaya
Le Pays reported on 13 July on a day of free consultation on reproductive health and family planning services that was held as part of the commemorative activities of World Population Day. The free consultation day was introduced by the ABBEF. The medical services which were offered were: HIV/AIDS screening, screenings of breast cancer and cervix cancer, and family planning methods. The landmark of this day was the participation and the implication of men. Adama Congo was interviewed and declared: it is a good initiative that the ABBEF decided to offer free consultation for men “. . . the consultation helps preventing diseases." Read in French: Le Pays
Le Quotidien published on 11 July an interview with Kaboré Saïdou, National Programme Officer on Population and Development and Gender. Mr. Saidou discussed World Population Day and of the launch of the World at Seven Billion campaign. He said, "A world of seven billion inhabitants arouses simultaneously a feeling of satisfaction, even success, but also anxiety in front of formidable challenges.”
CAMBODIA: Phnom Penh Post reported on 12 July that student volunteers were out in force on the streets of Phnom Penh, wearing T-shirts spelling out the message "7 billion.” Their aim was to mark the world reaching an official population of seven billion people this year, which will be marked by UNFPA with a series of worldwide events on 31 October. "The United Nations declaration that the world's population has increased to seven billion will be made on 31 October, but various campaigns have been prepared before that date,” said Pen Sophanara, a communications associate of UNFPA. Read: Phnom Penh Post
CAMEROON: Cameroon Tribune, reported on 12 July that World Population Day was celebrated on the theme "The World at Seven Billion,” related to fact that the World Population will reach seven billion on 31 October. Cameroon has chosen to commemorate this day under the theme "Poverty and inequality," one of the seven sub-themes developed in conjunction with the main theme at Akonolinga, in the Centre Region. This theme highlights the relationship between population growth, economic and distribution of the fruits of growth. The rural exodus, the extreme youth of the population are among the main themes addressed by the Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (Minepat), Louis Paul Motaze. He was speaking at Akonolinga, during a ceremony which was attended by UNFPA Representative Alain Sibenaler and several other members of the government. The Cameroonian Government has already taken actions to improve the living conditions of populations. Structuring projects that aim to generate wealth and redistribute it through the creation of many jobs are ongoing.Read: Cameroon Tribune
CANADA: Canwest reported on 12 July that a slim majority of Canadians thinks the country's population of about 34 million is just right, according to a new survey that also shows a significant minority - about one-third of all respondents - would prefer a bigger population, while just eight per cent think there's too many people living here already. . . UNFPA announced that the total number of people on Earth will reach seven billion this year, probably in late October. Canada, which encompasses nearly seven per cent of the world's land area, is home to less than one-half of one per cent of the planet's population. Read: Canwest
CAPE VERDE: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on events related to World Population Day. In addition to coverage on the global theme, "A World of Seven Billion, Counting on Each Other," the media highlighted the fact that Cape Verde’s population has nearly doubled in the past 50 years, and led to new challenges related to adolescent reproductive health and gender issues. The main event marking the day in Cape Verde was a day of reflection held at the National Assembly, which aimed to promote a debate on population issues both nationally and globally. At that event, UNFPA Representative Petra Lantz said that in this world of seven billion we need to ensure that there is proper planning, greater access to water and sanitation, particularly in cities, since the trend is for the world populations to be more urban in character. Along with "a world of possibilities" for increasing human potential, it is also necessary is to pay attention to linkages between population growth and access to food, natural resources, housing, and other commodities. Coverage included interviews with the UNPA representative and a special edition of a weekly programme in order to highlight the day’s events. Ms. Lantz said, "We must be alert, because when we talk about gender issues we have to take into account issues affecting both girls and boys." Watch in Portuguese: RTC (a), RTC (b), RTC (c), RTC (d). Read in Portuguese: Expresso das Ilhas and A Nacao
CHAD: Info Chad reported on 15 July on World Population Day. In a speech, UNFPA Officer in Charge, Thomas Zoungrana noted that the World Population Day this year is of paramount importance as it marks the launch of the campaign of seven billion. The campaign reaches its apotheosis on 31 October, when the world population is expected to reach seven billion.
COLOMBIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on World Population Day as UNFPA launched a global initiative to highlight the challenges, opportunities and actions that face a world of seven billion people. Articles also highlighted remarks by UNFPA Representative Tania Patriota, who discussed the need to develop policies to reform the health and pension systems and address the needs of older people. Read in Spanish: Semana, CMI, Radio Santa Fe, El Colombiano, Caracol, Mision Pyme
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): DRTV reported on 15 July on the visit by UNFPA Representative David Lawson to the country largest hospital in Brazzaville. Mr. Lawson visited the maternity and delivered baby kits to mothers whose babies were born on 11 and 12 July, in the context of the World Population Day 2011. The gesture was aimed at highlighting the importance of midwives to reduce maternal mortality.
Tele-Congo, MN TV, DRTV, Radio-Congo, les Depeches de Brazzaville and Congo-site reported on 12 and 13 July on a high-level round table organized by UNFPA and the Economy and Planning Ministry at the Central African States Bank in Brazzaville on "The World at Seven Billion: Implications for Congo" The round table gathered ministers, parliamentarians, ambassadors, diplomats, UN agencies and civil society actors. UNFPA Representative David Lawson said, "Youth is the future of humanity and must be provided with health, education and jobs.” In addition, he noted, women should have access to policy decision-making positions; young girls should be protected from early pregnancy and should have access education and health; urbanization be addressed through policies on transportation, housing, energy and sanitation. “It is only by planning now for the decades ahead that we will build a better world,” he concluded. Read in French: Congo-site, Les Depeches de Brazzaville. Watch in French: Congo-site
Les Depeches de Brazzaville and Tele-Radio Pointe Noire reported on 12 July on the visit by UNFPA Representative David Lawson to the rural Kouilou Province in Southern Congo on the occasion of a round table jointly organized by UNFPA, Provincial Governor Fidele Dimou and civil society organizations on "Living in a World at Seven Billion." Mr. Lawson said, "We have chosen to launch the World Population Day activities in Congo in a rural province as the consequences of a world at seven billion and increasing urbanization are being felt in rural areas. Investment must also be made in these areas to boost agricultural and economic activities, offer opportunities for young people, preserve the environment and avoid a rural exodus." Read in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville
DRTV, Tele-Congo, Tele-pointe Noire, MN TV, and Top TV broadcaston 11 July UNFPA Executive Director's message on World Population Day, delivered in Brazzaville by UNFPA Representative David Lawson. The message called for reducing poverty, enhancing reproductive health and rights and investing in youth and women. Young people constitute nearly half of the world population and need to be actively involved in building a better world for all.
Tele Pointe-noire broadcast on 11 July a special TV programme on the occasion of World Population Day on the theme “Living in a World of Seven Billion People." UNFPA Representative David Lawson and Kouilou Provincial Governor Fidele Dimou were guest speakers in a one-hour debate held in the economic capital city of Pointe-Noire with representatives from civil society and ministerial departments working on health, women, HIV/AIDS and youth.
COSTA RICA: Multiple media outlets reported and published op-eds on 11 July on World Population Day and UNFPA’s launch of the "7 Billion Actions" campaign. Listen in Spanish: ADN. Read in Spanish: La Nacion and La Republica
CUBA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11-16 July on events in Cuba and around the world marking World Population Day. In Cuba, UNFPA officials and others took the opportunity to reflect on the current and long-term demographic dynamics in Cub, where fertility is low and the challenges of an ageing population are becoming more prominent. A workshop coordinated by the Cuban Youth Studies Centre and UNFPA highlighted the fact that the future of Cuba brought together all generations and has in the new generations an essential locomotive force. Read: Granma International, Juventud Tecnica, Prensa Latina (a), Prensa Latina (b) Trabajadores, La Demajuaga, Giron, Cuba Ahora, La Tribuna de la Habana
DENMARK: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on events marking World Population Day and the launch of the “7 Billion Actions” campaign, as well as ongoing population issues, including the high global unmet need for family planning.
EL SALVADOR: La Prensa Grafica and El Mundo reported on 12 and 15 July on events marking World Population Day, including statements from UNFPA Representative Elena Zúñiga, as she launched the “7 Billion Actions” campaign in the country. Read in Spanish: La Prensa Grafica and El Mundo
FIJI: The Fiji Times reported on 11 July on World Population Day and the upcoming arrival of the world’s seven billionth inhabitant. Dirk Jena, the director of UNFPA Pacific, said, "This is a global milestone that presents challenges and opportunities, it calls for actions for a just and sustainable world." He said that each year 78 million people were added to the global population, increasing demands for natural resources and putting pressure on the planet. To mark World Population Day, UNFPA signed a memorandum of understanding with International Planned Parenthood Federation. The MOU will see an increase of programmes for political advocacy on population and development; adolescent and sexual reproductive health; work with faith-based organisations and traditional leadership; health commodity security and sexual and reproductive health and rights. Read: The Fiji Times
GABON: L'Union and Gabon Matin reported on 12 July on the deferral of World Population Day celebration. Normally celebrated on 11 July each year since 1989, a press conference with UN representatives and Youth Ministry delegate held a press conference to present World Population Day activities scheduled on 15 July.
GEORGIA: Georgia Today reported on 14 July that according to UN projections, the world’s population will reach a milestone this year with the population expected to surpass 7 billion people by 31 October. To engage the public in the lead-up to that day, UNFPA’s Georgia country office officially launched the “7 Billion Actions” campaign, an advocacy effort at the global level on World Population Day. UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin said “With the right policies, investments and social support, young people can enjoy healthier lives free of poverty and enhance the prospects for peace and stability”. The article also discussed achievements and endeavors of the UNFPA country office over the last decade. Read: Georgia Today
GHANA: GBC reported on 13 July that a representative of UNFPA, Dr. Bernard Coquelin, at a forum to commemorate World Population Day in Accra advised Ghana to channel more resources into reducing poverty, empowering the youth and developing resources to match the increase in population. Read: GBC
GUATEMALA: Nuestro Diario and Prensa Libre reported on 11 and 12 July on World Population Day. Coverage included an interview with UNFPA Representative Leonor Calderon, who called the young population a “time bonus or a time bomb” and also noted that UNFPA organized a forum to hear the views of young people about the growth of young people from different sectors, during which it was proposed that girls and women should receive more education, but also that their decisions need to be heard and respected. Read in Spanish: Prensa Libre (a) and Prensa Libre (b)
HAITI: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on the celebration by UNFPA and the National Association of Specialists in Population and Development (ANASPOD) on World Population Day. UNFPA technical adviser Gabriel Bidegain discussed population issues in Haiti and stressed the need to make decisions aimed at providing the people with basic social services.
INDIA: The Times of India reported on 14 July that the Nagaland department of health and family welfare observed the World Population Day by organizing a programme - Small Family Overall Development - at the State Academy Hall in Kohima. The state's minister for urban development and higher education said that the United Nation had authorized the event as a vehicle to spread awareness on population issues as they have a huge impact on development and environment. Since then, with UNFPA for encouragement, the government and non-government organizations, institutions and individuals organized various educational activities to celebrate this annual event.
The Times of India reported on 12 July that World Population Day saw UNFPA kick start “7 Billion,” a campaign launched to commemorate the imminent milestone of the world population touching seven billion later this year. It aims to promote proactive and positive discussion on the issue among the youth. UNFPA Senior advocacy and communications officer Rajat Ray said, "Before we hope to make an impact globally, we need the movement to gain momentum at the national level. We are targeting the youth and we wish to view the expansion of the world population to seven billion in a positive light. It should no longer have any negative association; we want to encourage the youth to actively engage in the opportunities and challenges that this number throws up." Read: Times of India
INDONESIA: The Jakarta Post reported on 14 July on a seminar marking World Population Day and co-sponsored by UNFPA and BKKBN. “As young people below 25 years old constitute the majority of the world’s population, countries should give them more access to reproductive health services,” said Jose Ferraris, the UNFPA’s Indonesian representative. Read: The Jakarta Post
IRAN: Multiple media outlets reported and published UNFPA statements on 11 July on World Population Day. UNFPA launched a global initiative to highlight challenges, opportunities and actions that would shape our common future as the world population approaches seven billion. Read: IRNA
IRAQ: Al-Sumaria and Al Shafeed reported on 11 July on an event organized by the Iraqi Ministry of Planning and the Census Higher Commission to release the Census Buildings and Establishment data. At the event, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) announced on 11 July the world is approaching seven billion in October, but knowledge of Iraq’s exact population is still missing due to postponement of the national census. UNAMI emphasized the importance of the census to the economic and social development of the country and encouraged all parties to agree on the disputed areas that are delaying the census. Ad Melkert, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, commented on UNFPA's support for census-taking in the country since 2005 and its efforts to bring all disputed parties together to the discussions on the importance of bringing the census into realty in the country. Read in Arabic: Al Sumaria and Al Shafeeq
JAMAICA: The Jamaica Gleaner and Jamaica Observer reported on 11 July on World Population Day. Director for the UNFPA sub-regional office for the Caribbean, Geeta Sethi warned that the elderly in the country can no longer be ignored, especially given projections that older people will outnumber children under 15 years old by 2050. "We have an opportunity and a responsibility to invest in meeting the needs of older people so that the quality of their life is enhanced, their rights protected and they can live in dignity. This includes investments in infrastructure such as housing and transportation; social security and basic social services including affordable, accessible health care," she said. Read: Jamaica Gleaner and Jamaica Observer
JORDAN: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 and 12 July on World Population Day. Articles highlighted the importance of this year’s milestone and announced the launch of the Seven Billion Actions Campaign by UNFPA, as well as messages and statements by UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. Coverage noted that Jordan’s main event to mark World Population Day will be held on 25 July, along with the launch of Jordan’s Population Report 2010, under the patronage of HRH Princess Basma Bint Talal, UNFPA Jordan Goodwill Ambassador. Thie 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. Read in Arabic: Al Rai, Ad Dustour, Jordan Times and Al Arab Al Yawm
KAZAKHSTAN: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July that UNFPA announced that world population will reach seven billion on 31 October. The announcement was made during a press briefing on the occasion of World Population Day and a seminar on mortality in Central Asia. The seminar, organized in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania and the Higher School of Economics in Moscow, brought together prominent international demographers and experts from national statistical offices in Central Asia. They reviewed the situation in the region, with an emphasis on topics such as data quality, infant and child mortality, adult mortality, maternal mortality, life expectancy, and causes of death. Read in Russian: Kaz Inform, Kaz Inform, Kaz Inform, Kaz Inform, Khabar and KTK
KENYA: Nairobi Star reported on 12 July on celebrations to mark this year's World Population Day at the Naivasha AP grounds. During the ceremony, UNFPA country director Zama Chi said the use of contraceptives has contributed to infertility. "Evidence from a number of surveys indicates that unmet needs for family planning especially for young women is high with accompanying high maternal deaths," he said
The Nairobi Star reported on 11 July on the day’s observation of world population day, noting that the world's population is increasing at an alarming rate. This, according to UNFPA, will see the world hit the seven billion mark on 31 October this year. Though it has been cited to bring a considerable amount of strain on the world's ever diminishing resources, there is also the aspect that many experts have brought forward, of the increase in population amounting to an increase in opportunities and especially with regards to manpower.
LAO PDR: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on World Population Day as the new Minister of Planning and Investment, Somdy Duangdy, spoke to the media. "Population growth has resulted in a significant demographic change. One in every three Lao people is aged 10 to 24, providing a large workforce that is the key driver of economic development. The working-age population accounts for 57 per cent of the total population,” said Mr. Somdy. UNFPA Representative Mieko Yabuta said, “I am very pleased that the Lao government has recognized its demographic window of opportunity and is placing a high priority on improving its human capital.” Read: Lao Voices, KPL. Read in French: KPL
LEBANON: Multiple media outlets reported on 13 -15 July on a roundtable organized by the Lebanon Family Planning Association for Development and Family Empowerment (LFPADE) in collaboration with UNFPA and the Ministry of Social Affairs on July 14. The roundtable discussed population policies in Lebanon and on the launch of the “7 Billion Actions” campaign by UNFPA, its main themes and milestones and published the message of UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. Read in Arabic: Al Mustaqbal, Lebanon Files (a), Lebanon Files (b) and National News Agency
LIBERIA: The New Dawn reported on 11 July that United States Ambassador to Liberia, Linda Thomas Greenfield, has cautioned Liberia on the observance of World Population Day to exert effort in developing the capacity of Liberian women. “We know that illiteracy is a huge problem here in Liberia,” Ambassador Greenfield pointed out. She also pointed to the country’s idle youthful population, stressing the need for more investments to mold these young people into better future leaders. The Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs and the Liberia Institute of Statistics & Geo Information Services, in collaboration with UNFPA were involved in the celebration of World Population Day. Read: The New Dawn
MACEDONIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July that expecting that the population on the planet will soon grow to more than 7 billion, the United Nations with the “7 Billion Actions” campaign marked 11 July – World Population Day. Each young person deserves education, including sexual education, as well as access to extensive health services, appeals the Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund, Babatunde Osotimehin. According to him, real policies and investments would provide to the youth healthier life without poverty. Protection of reproductive health and rights is the foundation for our collective future and sustainable development, UN representatives reckon. The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon’s written message is in the same line – take determined actions in order to provide better life to the generations to come. Read in Macedonian: Sitel, Tocka, Netpress and Kajgana
MAURITANIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 and 12 July on the celebration in Mauritania of World Population Day under the theme "the world at seven billions of people." The official launch of the commemorative events of the day brought together the representatives of the UN system, the ministers of key sectors in charge of the implementation of the country programme, parliamentarians, journalists, media, NGOs and civil society associations. The Minister of Economic Affairs who chaired the ceremony, praised the cooperation between UNFPA and Mauritania and focused on the issues, challenges and opportunities that a world of seven billion people can offer and the need for solidarity of all to draw maximum benefits for the country and for the entire humanity.
MEXICO: Multiple media outlet reported on 11-15 July on activities marking on World Population Day in Mexico. UNFPA Representative Diego Palacios Jaramillo pointed out the need to address the rights of young people. This group, totaling 1.2 billion people, and more than 20 million in Mexico, should be a priority for the Mexican Government and for the international community as a whole. The current number of young-people between 15 and 24 years is the highest in history, forcing governments to think how to cover their present and future needs in education, sexual and reproductive health and access to employment, Mr. Palacios said at a conference. Read in Spanish: UN Radio, CNN Mexico (a), CNN Mexico (b), CIMAC, EFE, La Jornada, Quadratin, Once TV, Agencia Reforma, Radio Formula, El Sol de Mexico, Notiese, Periodico Sintesis, News Hidalgo, ADN Sureste, Cambio de Michoacan, Diario Despertar de Oaxaca, MVT, Pulso San Luis Potosi, EHUI
MOZAMBIQUE: O País, Rádio Moçambique, RTO-África, TVM, Diário de Moçambique and Domingo reported on 12-17 July on World Population Day. UNFPA Representative, Patricia Guzman was quoted in all reports saying that the growing population challenges governments to create employment opportunities, provide education and health, particularly for women and young people. Read in Portuguese: O Pais and Diario Mozambique
NAMIBIA: The Namibian Sun on 14 July reported on World Population Day. UNFPA Representative Dr. Lawrence Mgbangson is quoted in the article saying, “Reducing inequalities and improving living standards for people alive today as well as for generations to follow will require new ways of thinking and unparalleled global cooperation and the moment to act is now.” Read in English: The Namibian Sun
NEPAL: Xinhua (China) reported on 11 July that World Population Day was marked with a special programme organized by the Ministry of Health and Population in the capital Kathmandu. UNFPA Representative Ian McFarlane said that not only economic activities but also health and education should be equally prioritized in the nation.
NIGER: Le Sahel reported on 12 July that the ceremony of commemoration of World Population Day and the launch of the "7 Billion Actions" campaign took place under the chairmanship of the Minister of Population, Women promote and Child Protection Maikibi Kadidiatou Dandobi. In a speech on this occasion, UNFPA Representative Yacine Diallo pointed out that in a “world of 7 billion, we have to invest in youth because their choices will determine our common future. When rights of young people to health, including sexual and reproductive health and education are guaranteed, they represent a strong power in the service of the our world social and economic transformation.”
NIGERIA: ThisDay reported on 14 July that Nigeria and other member countries of the United Nations have been told that ending global poverty and inequality is the key to unleashing the great human potential for prosperity and peaceful coexistence, while protecting the planet and safeguarding the natural resources that sustain humanity. The call was made by the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, in a message to mark World Population Day, observed annually on 11 July. UNFPA launched the "7 Billion Actions" campaign to promote dialogue on the challenges, opportunities and actions that will be needed to ensure a better future for humanity. "While poverty, inequality and increased stress on resources represent major challenges, the world is more interconnected than ever before, creating enormous possibilities," said UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin, in his message to mark the day.
The Nigerian Tribune reported on 12 July that as Nigeria’s population hits 162 million on 31 October this year, the National Population Commission (NPC) has said that the country’s population is too large for comfort. To manage the rapidly growing population, UNFPA stated that Nigeria and other donor organizations had made available $42 million to procure family planning commodities. Read: Nigerian Tribune
The Guardian reported on 12 July that Nigeria’s population is expected to hit 166 million mark just as the world population is projected to rise to seven billion from six billion. With this figure, Nigeria will be contributing about 2.4 per cent of the world population and at the same time, about five million people are added to Nigeria’s population on a yearly basis. On the global scale, however, additional 78 million people are added to the world population yearly. The chairman of the National Population Commission, Chief Samu’ila Danko Makama, gave the figures at an event to mark World Population Day. Meanwhile, UNFPA has revealed plans to spend N6.6 billion or $42 million for reproductive and maternal health in the next five years. The agency’s country representative, Agathe Lawson, said the funds were received from the Department for International Development, United States Agency for International Development and Nigerian government for commodities services. Read: The Guardian
The Nigerian Observer reported on 11 July on a debate sponsorted by the National Population Commission (NPC) and UNFPA. The debate between Government Secondary School, Jiwa, and Government Secondary School, Lugbe, was part of the build up to the World Population Day. Read: Nigerian Observer
DPR of KOREA: KCNA reported on 11 July that a seminar on "The World Population Day 2011 - The World at 7 Billion," the theme provided by UNFPA, was held at the Grand People's Study House in Pyongyang.
OMAN: The Oman Daily Observer published an op-ed on 12 July by Rajan Philips on World Population Day. Dr. Philips noted that UNFPA plays a crucial role in educating the public on population issues by creating awareness programmes globally. Read: Oman Daily Observer
PAKISTAN: Plus News reported on 13 July that UNFPA launched a national campaign to highlight the critical role of young population to play in shaping the destiny of the country. UNFPA Pakistan organized a seminar on World Population Day: the key objective of the seminar was to engage all stakeholders together in raising awareness about seven key themes which were critical to country's socio-economic development.
Right Vision News reported on 12 July that NATPOW, the National Trust for Population Welfare led a celebration of World Population Day. The article noted that, in addition to events on 11 July, in Lahore, the celebration was take place on the July 12 where NATPOW in collaboration with WPD, UNFPA and other partners will arrange media conference to send our message of population day to a vast audience through print and electronic media.
PARAGUAY: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on World Population Day and UNFPA’s launch of the Seven Billion Actions Campaign. Articles noted that that on 31 October, the world population will reach 7 billion people. Articles noted statements by UNFPA officials, including Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. UNFPA’s Aldo Natalizia called for equity in policy and planning, particularly in urban areas in order to address challenges including poverty and early pregnancy. Read in Spanish: Ultima Hora, IP Paraguay, La Nacion (a) and La Nacion (b)
ROMANIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 11 July on a press conference held by UNFPA Representative for Romania and Country Director for Moldova, Macedonia and Serbia, Francois Farah, and Vergil Voineagu, President of the National Institute of Statistics (NIS). The press conference took place at the NIS, attended by media and NIS representatives invited to celebrate World Population Day, as well as 152 years of official statistics in Romania/Statisticians’ Day. The two themes joined at the same press conference are a result of a partnership between UNFPA and NIS in Romania, and also offered an opportunity for reflection on a major common interest and effort: the upcoming 2011 Population and Housing Census. Both speakers talked about the importance of Romania’s full participation in this complex nation-wide exercise which will yield essential data for the development of proper public policies, measures and services in support of various priority population needs. The UN System in Romania, under UNFPA leadership, is providing a consolidated support to NIS to carry out the census as part of a joint project that gives special attention to Roma minority participation in the census. Read in Romanian: Mediafax, Amos News, EVZ, Jurnalul, Romania Libera, Romania Actualitati, Radio Romania, Radio Romania Antena Satelor and Adevarul
SIERRA LEONE: New Citizen reported on 12 July that hundreds of school children, representatives of line Ministries, UN agencies and the media on joined the simultaneous commemoration of this year’s World Population Day spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development in collaboration with UNFPA. The UNFPA Country Representative re-echoed the statement of the UNFPA Executive Director, Babatunde Osotimehin and the Secretary-General of the United Nations which focused on youth and adolescents in a world with a population of seven billion, saying, “let us take this opportunity as development planners and policy makers to plan for our future generations.” The Deputy Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Alhaji Foday Mansaray asserted that concerns about over-population are re-emerging and that it is very important that UNFPA is engaged in the population debate to protect and promote the human rights vision of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Agenda to ensure that individuals have right to decide freely and responsibly on the number, spacing and timing of their children.
SOUTH AFRICA: BuaNews reported on 11 July that Mark Schreiner, who is the officer in charge at the United Nations Population Fund, said investing in young people is a smart decision the country could make and called on youth serving organisations to take advantage of the opportunities that exists and educate themselves as tomorrow's leaders.
SUDAN: Sudan Vision Daily and Al Sahafa reported and published op-eds on 11-17 July on World Population Day. In an op-ed, UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin marking World Population Day wrote, “Today on World Population Day, I am launching a campaign called Seven Billion Actions. It will engage people on what it means to live in a world with seven billion people and encourage action on issues that affect all of us.” The National Population Council in collaboration with UNFPA, organized a consultation forum for reviewing and updating the national population policy, considering new developments in Sudan. The forum was addressed by the minister of social security and welfare, chairperson of the national population council and UNFPA acting representative. Read: Sudan Visioni Daily, Sudan Vision Daily, Sudan Vision Daily and Al Sahafa
SURINAME: Starnieuws reported on 12 July on UNFPA-led World Population Day events in the country. Read in Dutch: Star Nieuws
SWAZILAND: The Times of Swaziland and The Swazi Observer reported on 11 and 12 July on World Population Day. The Swazi Observer noted that UNFPA Representative Hassan Mohtashami explained that Swaziland was using this opportunity to raise national awareness on imperative population issues that are critical to the development of the country. Dr. Mohtashami stated that the recent and rapid growth of the population was intricately linked to many of the developmental, environmental and social trends of the present society. He explained that the milestone represented a challenge, an opportunity and a call for action. Read: The Swazi Observer
TAJIKISTAN: Khovar, Ozodagon and RFE/RL reported on 11 and 12 July that that UNFPA, United Nations Population Fund marked World Population Day with a motto “7 billion actions.” Articles also highlighted population issues in Tajikistan, which UNFPA officials noted, has a rapidly growing population, which has expanded by 23 per cent since 2000. Read in Russian: Ozodagon and RFE/RL
TANZANIA: The Citizen and The Daily News reported on 11 July on celebrations of World Population Day and the launch of UNFPA’s “7 Billion Actions” campaign, noting that UNFPA Representative Julitta Onabanjo highlighted the importance of young people’s participation in development in her statement marking the day.
THAILAND: The Nation TV, NBT Channel 11 and Radio Thailand reported on World Population Day on 11-14 July. Coverage included interviews with Wassana Im-em, Officer-in-Charge a.i., of UNFPA Country Office in Thailand and William Ryan, Regional Communications Adviser of UNFPA Asia and the Pacific Regional Office, have been included in the scoop. In addition to the global situation and trends, Ms Wassana analysed the demographic change in Thailand while Mr Ryan highlighted the regional issues.
TOGO: Togo Presse reported on 11 July on World Population Day celebrations and World at 7Billion activities by the Ministry of Plan & Territorial Administration in collaboration with UNFPA Togo. The importance of this year’s theme of “The world at 7 Billion: counting on each other” could not be over-emphasized. Minister Dédé Ahoéfa Ekoué, in her speech raised awareness on the challenges and opportunities that a world of seven billion inhabitants presented. She called upon all key players and policy-makers to come up with strategies that will capitalize on the opportunities and seek to mobilize more resources and favorable conditions in order to make the World at 7 Billion a better place to live in. UNFPA Representative Cécile Mukarubuga, congratulated the government on its 3.5 per cent economic growth rate in 2010. She also encouraged the government to double the social infrastructures available given the growth rate of 2.58 per cent per year and underscored the need to promote family planning services. The representative nevertheless promised UNFPA’s unwavering support and co-operation to the Togolese government in the search of better ways and means aiming at ameliorating the livelihood of the population.
TUNISIA: La Presse de Tunisie and Agence Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP) reported on 12 July on the conference “Youth, Women and participation” organized by the Byrsa Citizenship Movement with the support of the UNFPA CO organised within the celebration of the World Population Day and related to the theme of youth, women and civic commitment. Read in French La Presse de Tunisie and Agence Tunis Afrique
Télévion Nationale Tunisenne (TNT), Hannibal TV, Nessma TV and Canal 2 broadcast on 12 July interviews with Leila Saiji Joudane, assistant representative of the UNFPA in Tunisia, related to the work of the UNFPA CO in the field of human rights and support given to civil society to strengthen and promote youth and women commitment in public life. Watch in Arabic: Hannibal TV and TNT
TURKEY: Hurriyet Daily News reported on 11 July on World Population Day, noting that the world population is nearing seven billion. "The number sounds high, but it is not something that we should be scared of," said UNFPA Eastern Europe and Central Asia Director Thea Fierens. "Instead we should really concentrate on how to build better opportunities for that many [7 billion] people to live in." According to Ms. Fierens, even though having more children is promoted, Turkey's population is in decline "People are more educated and they have children when they are ready," she said. Read: Hurriyet Daily News
TURKMENISTAN: Neutral Turkmenistan reported 11 July on Turkmenistan and UNFPA cooperation on the occasion of the World Population Day. The article described UNFPA’s work with the national partners in Turkmenistan in the area of reproductive health and rights, population and development, gender equality and youth. UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin was quoted on opportunity and responsibility to invest in the world’s 1.8 billion adolescents and youth aged 10 to 24, as they constitute more than a quarter of the world's population. A better future can be built for all generation if a country more actively engages women and young people.
UGANDA: New Vision reported on 13 July on remarks by President Yoweri Museveni that were presented by third Deputy Prime Minister Gen. Moses Ali at, "Uganda at 33 million; time to act,” an event organised by the Population Secretariat and UNFPA. Uganda'S high fertility rate is affecting women's contribution to national development, President Yoweri Museveni has said. "An average of seven children per woman in the reproductive age bracket is high. Our mothers and sisters need ample time to engage in income-generating activities," said President Museveni in the statement.
The Observer on 11 July published an op-ed by UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin. “On October 31, 2011, the world population will reach seven billion, according to the United Nations Population Division. This global milestone presents a challenge, an opportunity, and a call to action. Whether we can live together on a healthy planet will depend on the choices that we make now. Therefore, today, on World Population Day, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is launching a global campaign called 7 Billion Actions to create a more just and sustainable world.”Read in English: The Observer
UNITED STATES: Ms. reported on 11 July that in honor of World Population Day, UNFPA, together with National Geographic, IBM, and SAP, launched the 7 Billion Actions Campaign, which will run through 31 October, when the world population is expected to exceed seven billion. The campaign seeks to educate people concerns related to the growing population. Babatunde Osotimehin, executive director of UNFPA stated, "Whether we can live together on a healthy planet will depend on the decisions we make now. The date we reach the next billion-and the ones after that-depends on policy and funding decisions made now about maternal and child health care, access to voluntary family planning, girls' education, and expanded opportunities for women and young people." Read: Ms.
The Huffington Post published a blog on 12 July by Ashley Judd to mark World Population Day. She wrote, on World Population Day, the United Nations Population Fund officially launched 7 Billion Actions -- a campaign to raise awareness and action around our planet's growing population, which is set to reach 7 billion later this year. The campaign is a wake-up call to the health, environmental, and social challenges associated with rapid population growth. It is also a wake-up call to the importance of voluntary family planning.” Read: The Huffington Post
UZBEKISTAN: Multiple news outlets reported on 11 July on the celebration of World Population Day in Uzbekistan. On 8 July, UNFPA and the Women’s Committee held an outdoor event at one of Tashkent’s parks. The event featured a marathon among women-activists and charitable chalk drawing contest among orphan kids. Participants were awarded with souvenirs. The event was aimed at highlighting the launch of a global campaign “The World at Seven Billion,” and once again drawing public attention around the issues of population and development and, in particular, UNFPA’s cooperation with the government of Uzbekistan in the areas of advancing sexual and reproductive health. Read: UzReport, UzDaily. Read in Russian: UzReport and UzDaily
VIET NAM: Multiple media outlets reported on 11-12 July that at a press conference organized in Hanoi on 11 July to commemorate the 2011 World Population Day, the Ministry of Health and the UNFPA in Viet Nam launched a national campaign called "7 Billion Actions" to draw attention throughout the year to the significance of the world population reaching seven billion by the end of October. Data from the 2009 Census shows that Viet Nam has entered a ‘demographic dividend’ period, recording the highest proportional level of young people in Viet Nam’s history. "As a middle-income country increasingly integrated into the world economy, Viet Nam will be able to take advantage of new opportunities, while at the same time having to deal with a range of emerging challenges. The sex ratio at birth imbalance, population ageing and access to sexual and reproductive health services for young people are some of the emerging population issues that need to be addressed now and in the coming years. The ICPD Programme of Action to which Viet Nam is committed offers an ideal framework to address these challenges," said Mandeep Janeja, Acting UNFPA Representative in Viet Nam. Read in English: VOV, Viet Nam News 1, Viet Nam News 2, Viet Nam Plus. Read in Vietnamese: Gia Dinh va Xa Hoi, Bao Dien tu Chinh Phu, Tien Phong, Lao Dong, Nguoi Lao Dong, Thanh Tra, Dang Cong San, VTV, Dan Tri, Lao Dong Thu Do, Viet Nam net, Quan Doi Nhan Dan
YEMEN: Multiple media outlets reported on 11-4 July on World Population Day. Coverage highlighted an event organized by the National Population Council and UNFPA, as well as the “7 million Actions” campaign. UNFPA officials, including Representative Marc Vandenberghe, and Executive Director Babatunde Osotimehin were widely quoted. Read: Yemen Times. Read in Arabic: Saba and Al Thawra
ZAMBIA: The Post reported on 12 July that UNFPA said investing in young people would ensure that they are equipped to be a powerful force for Zambia’s future economic growth and prosperity. UNFPA representative Dual Owusu-Sarfo said each and every adolescent deserved to grow up healthy, free of hunger, with access to education and prospects for employment. “Investments and improvements in health, especially sexual and reproductive health, as well as education education and tertiary will ensure that youths are equipped to be powerful force for Zambia’s future economic growth and prosperity,” Sarfo said. Read: The Post
The Lusaka Times reported on 11 July that UNFPA says Zambia needs to work hard to ensure that the country’s population growth tallies with the growth of the economy. UNFPA country representative Duah Owusu- Sarfo said that the economy is expected to triple more than the growth of the population as this is key in fighting poverty but that this has not been the case for Zambia which has its annual economic growth standing at about 6 per cent per year. He made the remark at a press conference marking World Population Day in Zambia. Read: The Lusaka Times
THAILAND: Pregnant Teen HIV/AIDS Rate Up
The Bangkok Post reported on 30 March that the head of HIV/AIDS surveillance of the Bureau of Epidemiology has expressed concern over a growing number of HIV/AIDS cases in teen pregnancy. The article noted that Chaiyos Kunanusont, of UNFPA, said condoms were still the most important tool for HIV/AIDS prevention. No effective vaccine has yet been developed although several candidates are undergoing trials. Read: The Bangkok Post
THAILAND: Pacific Islands Well-Represented At Regional Statistics Meeting
SPC reported on 17 December that several representatives of the Pacific Islands attended the second session of the Committee on Statistics established by UNESCAP. UNFPA was one of several international agencies in attendance, along with the heads of national statistical agencies from Fiji, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Vanuatu. Read: SPC
THAILAND: Conference Examines Family Planning Integration With National Health Strategies
The Medical News reported on 9 December that delegates from 24 countries across the region were in the Thai capital to attend a three-day consultation to focus on the urgent need for governments in the region and the donor community to continue, as well as increase, investments in reproductive health, including family planning, as a critical element to achieve the MDGs, especially that of the universal access to reproductive health. The high-level consultation, entitled “Family Planning in Asia and the Pacific – Addressing the Challenges”, was jointly organized by UNFPA and the International Council for the Management of Population Programmes. Read: The Medical News
GLOBAL: COVERAGE ON RELEASE OF UNFPA’S STATE OF WORLD POPULATION 2010 REPORT
IRIN reported on 22 October that modern war is often not about soldier against soldier, but a struggle to "break the will of civilians — women, girls, men and boys" by whatever means possible - including rape – according to the UNFPA State of World Population 2010 report published on 20 October. The term “gender-based violence” is often used to refer to violence against women, but, as the UN Guidelines for Gender-based Violence Interventions in Humanitarian Settings state, "it is important to note. . . men and boys may also be victims of gender-based violence, especially sexual violence.” Read: IRIN
UN Radio reported on 21 October Safiye Çagar from UNFPA says it's crucial to recognize the role women play in rebuilding broken societies. Discrimination against women and the perpetuation of crimes, such as rape, is a major hindrance to peace, security and development in countries emerging from conflict, according to the State of World Population 2010 report. The report by UNFPA says when women have the same rights and opportunities as men, they are more resilient to conflict and disaster. "Renewal means creating new opportunities and rectifying entrenched inequalities. Renewals requires empowerment of all members of society who are vulnerable.” Read: UN Radio
IPS reported and published an interview on 20 October with UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid on the State of World Population 2010 report. “The new trend we are trying to bring into the discussion about women is the three R's – Resilience, Renewal, and Redefining roles. Women are always seen as victims. We are saying women are not victims. Women have the resilience, they keep the families together. And with renewal, when we are rebuilding after a crisis, we should not rebuild society as it was before, with all the inequalities and inequities in it, but on a new human rights paradigm that will bring equality.” Read: IPS and IPS
UN News reported on 20 October on the release of The World’s Women 2010: Trends and Statistics, published by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs and the State of World Population 2010, which found that discrimination against women not only exposes them to the worst effects of disaster and war, but also deprives their countries of a prime engine for recovery. “This year’s report is about the three Rs: resilience, renewal and redefining roles between boys and girls and men and women,” UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid said at the official launch in London of the report, which uses stories of individuals affected by conflict or catastrophe in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan, Liberia, the occupied Palestinian territory, Timor-Leste and Uganda to bring home its message. Read: UN News
AFRICA: PANA reported on 20 and 22 October that UNFPA said "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. UNFPA made the statement in a report entitled, State of World Population 2010, which was released 20 October at the UN headquarters in New York. The release of the report coincided with the tenth anniversary of the UN Security Council’s landmark resolution 1325, which aimed to put a stop to sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflict. Read: PANA and in French: PANA
Afrol News reported on 20 October that the East African region is slowly developing into one of the world's new population blocks, with the region surpassing all of North America in few years and all of Europe by the 2040s. A new, major power may be building up. New data by UNFPA, presented in London, reveal a major global population shift, where the Eastern African region is emerging as one of the world's largest blocks in the coming decades. Read: Afrol News
Jeune Afrique reported on 20 October on the release of the State of World Population 2010 report. Read in French: Jeune Afrique
LATIN AMERICA: EFE reported on 20 October on the release of the State of World Population 2010 report. Women and children remain the principle victims of conflicts and, when they are over, can achieve peace. According to the report, the traumas that are suffered by people because of war do not disappear when peace agreements are made, and the impact of conflict is felt differently by everyone in a society. Read in Spanish: EFE
AUSTRALIA / AFGHANISTAN: The Sydney Morning Herald reported on 20 October that it's important for Australia to see through the Afghanistan mission to prevent it again becoming a terrorist haven and also to achieve a better deal for Afghan women. Speaking following the launch of UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report, Minister for the Status of Women Kate Ellis said the Taliban banned girls from school, locked away women and allowed them few rights. "It is really important that we see it through so that we can prevent Afghanistan from becoming a haven for terrorists again; and also that we can empower those women and make sure they are considered as a part of a lasting peace, and we have educated women with rights and responsibilities to play a full role within the civil life of Afghanistan," she said. Read: Sydney Morning Herald
AUSTRALIA: ABC and Radio Australia reported on 20-21 October on Deputy Regional Director Najib Assifi’s radio interview with Louise Maher and Linda Lopresti about UNFPA’s report on the State of World Population. Read: ABC and Radio Australia
AUSTRIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 20 October on the release of UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report and quoted Petra Bayr, the Austrian Parliamentarian who launched the report in Vienna together with ÖGF. The articles say that women often are not responsible for starting war but often have to suffer the most from war. Read in German: Nachrichten, Die Standard, OTS, Wiener Zeitung
BANGLADESH: Daily Star reported on 22 October that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is unaware of the statistics of the country's new population figure revealed by UNFPA in Dhaka on 20 October, highly placed sources said yesterday. Neither Health Minister AFM Ruhal Haque nor Secretary Humayun Kabir knew anything about the UN report that claimed Bangladesh's total population rose to 16.44 crore in 2010, from 12.43 crore in 2001. "I have no knowledge about UNFPA claim and I was not consulted before revealing such a report on Bangladesh," said Ruhal Haque in response to a journalist’s request for comments on UNFPA’s report, State of World Population 2010. Read: Daily Star
Financial Express published an editorial on 22 October arguing, “There is no parallel of a small country of about 55,000 square miles only crammed already with a population of 164.4 million which is the size of the Bangladesh population today according to the latest report of UNFPA that was released at a function at a city hotel last 20 October. The occasion was aimed to alert policy-makers in this country to the runway population growth which has already suffered the burden of overpopulation for a long time. UNFPA assessment also showed up the lack of credibility of erstwhile available official figure of the current population size of the country at 140 million. Thus, there are more than 24 million more people whom the earlier official headcount bypassed and who remain outside planned activities on its part. This is a glaring omission in the sphere of population control activities among other vital indicators of slipping performance in what should be a centre point of concern for Bangladesh.” Read: Financial Express
Daily Star, New Nation and Sify reported on 20 and 21 October that Bangladesh's population is now 164.4 million, up from 156 million a decade back. The boom is a matter of concern as it threatens food security, warned Food and Disaster Management Minister Abdur Razzaque who unveiled the State of World Population 2010 report. The UNFPA report also predicted that the population of the country would hit 222.5 million by 2050. Read: Daily Star (21 October), Daily Star (20 October) New Nation and Sify
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: Multiple media outlets reported on 20 October and 21 October on the UNFPA’s exhibition "S.O.S. Sound of Silence" at the BiH National Galery. At the Exhibition’s opening evening the visitors watched the premiere screening of the UN Documentary Film 21st Century - Bosnia: Rape, Legacy of War presented by producer Andi Gitow. The event also served to publicly launch the annual UNFPA State of the World Population Report for 2010. Read in Bosnian: BH Dani, Radio Sarajevo, Ljiljan, MOJ Portal
BOTSWANA: Daily News reported on 22 October that women rarely wage war, but they suffer the worst of its consequences, UNFPA Representative Aisha Camara-Drammeh, has said. Officiating at the launching ceremony of a report on the State of World Population themed, "From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change," Ms. Camara-Drammeh said women participation in peacebuilding was a prerequisite to its success.
BRAZIL: Multiple media outlets reported on 20 October that rape has become a widespread weapon of war used in many countries during conflicts, according to a new report released by UNFPA. UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Obaid stressed that while conflicts and disasters intensify gender inequities, recovery represents a unique opportunity to correct such inequalities, ensure proper legal protection and create room for positive change. Read in Portuguese: Terra Portal/EFE Brasil, Deutsche Welle-Brasil and Agencia Brasil
Folha de S.Paulo, UOL and BOL reported on 21 October that only 10 per cent of the world’s countries protect women during conflict and disaster situations, according to UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 Report. The article recalls that ten years after the UN Security Council's approval of resolution 1325, the first of its kind addressing women’s issues in armed conflict, only 18 out of 192 nations have implemented measures to follow its guidelines. UNFPA Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, Marcela Suazo, is quoted saying that one should not forget that there are other countries following guidelines from UN conferences on women. She also pointed out that despite the fact Brazil has not yet taken action to implement resolution 1325, the country has shown progress in fighting violence against women, but an overall social consciousness that such violence should not be tolerated is still needed. Read in Portuguese: Folha de S. Paulo and BOL
CANADA: Toronto Star reported on 19 October that the 1990s were brutal years for women in war-torn territories. In Bosnia and Kosovo, they were rounded up and systematically assaulted in rape centres. In Rwanda, they were raped, mutilated and slaughtered. In Liberia and Uganda they were tortured and forced into sexual slavery. And in East Timor they were kidnapped and raped as their husbands were executed. Ten years ago, widespread atrocities led to a ground-breaking United Nations Security Council resolution demanding that warring factions protect women and girls from gender-based violence and include them in peace negotiations. UNFPA published a report on the progress made since the resolution was passed. It says there is a growing network of grassroots organizations working with governments and communities to help conflict victims — including men and boys. The UN is marking the anniversary of the resolution with a Global Open Day on Women, Peace and Security highlighting recommendations from women peace advocates from war-affected countries. “What began as a call on governments a decade ago to deal with abuses or neglect of women and girls has steadily grown into a broader movement that encompasses all members of society,” said the population fund’s report. Read: Toronto Star
CHINA: People’s Daily Online reported on 21 October that discrimination against women not only exposes them to the worst effects of disaster and war, including rape, but also deprives their countries of a prime engine for recovery, according to a new United Nations report launched on 20 October. UNFPA State of World Population 2010 report, “From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change” coincides with the tenth anniversary of the Security Council's landmark Resolution 1325, which aimed to end sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflict and to encourage greater participation by them in peace building initiatives. "This year's report is about the three Rs: resilience, renewal and redefining roles between boys and girls and men and women," UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid said on 20 October at the official launch in London of the report, which uses stories of individuals affected by conflict or catastrophe in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan, Liberia, the occupied Palestinian territory, Timor-Leste and Uganda to bring home its message. Read: People’s Daily Online
People’s Daily Online reported on 20 October that the world's population is expected to reach 9.15 billion in 2050 from the current 6.908 billion. According to the State of World Population 2010 report, India will have a population of 1.6138 billion by that time and would become the world's most populous country, replacing China whose population will reach 1.417 billion in 2050. The theme of this year's report was "From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change,” UNFPA Deputy Executive Director Mari Simonen said. She said this year's report coincided with the tenth anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which recognizes the vulnerability of women and girls to violence during and after armed conflict and the absence of women representation in efforts to prevent war. Read: People’s Daily Online
COLOMBIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 22-25 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report by UNFPA representative Tania Patriota. Ms. Patriota called on Colombia to recognize the fact that sexual violence is a weapon of war, and that much remains to be done, as many cases of sexual and gender-based violence continue to go unreported and un-prosecuted. Read in Spanish: El Colombiano, El Nuevo Siglo, El Tiempo, MSN Colombia, Caracol
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Les Depeches de Brazzaville and Congo-site reported on 22 October on the launch by UNFPA of the State of World Population report. The report was presented by UNFPA Representative David Lawson who called on the international community to take unprecedented measures to prevent sexual violence against women in armed conflict and humanitarian situations. In her address on the occasion, Social Affairs and Humanitarian Action Minister Emilienne Raoul praised UNFPA for its role in development and humanitarian action and called upon it to support the documentation of the role of the civil wars' consequences on Congolese Women and their role in peacebuilding. On an official visit to Congo, UNFPA Africa Regional Director addressed young people and entertained an innovative and interactive dialogue with them on the themes of the report. He said, "young people are the future of the world and actors of conflict prevention and peace building reconstruction. It is essential that Governments invest in youth now." The event was broadly attended by government officials, ambassadors, UN Representatives, and civil society actors. Read in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville and Congo-site
COSTA RICA: Teletica reported on 22 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report. Watch in Spanish: Teletica
CUBA: Granma reported on 21 October and Prensa Latina reported on 20 October on the release of UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report. UNFPA Regional Director Marcela Suazo explained that the report brings to light the experiences of women in countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Haiti, Jordan, Timor-Leste and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Read in Spanish: Granma and Prensa Latina
DENMARK: U-landsnyt reported on 21 October on UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report. It stated that women are central actors in peacekeeping and in rebuilding societies. Read in Danish: U-landsnyt
ECUADOR: El Tiempo reported on 20 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report in Ecuador, highlighting the fact that half of the 52,000 Colombian citizens with refugee status in Ecuador are women and 70 per cent of the world’s refugees are women. Read in Spanish: El Tiempo
EL SALVADOR: EFE reported on 21 October on the release of the State of World Population report. UNFPA Representative Elena Zúñiga discussed gender-based violence in El Salvador, urging the government to develop a plan to address violence against women in the country. Read in Spanish: EFE
Diario Co Latino reported on 20 October that according to a report issued every year by UNFPA, in the 1980’s and 1990’s, armed conflict in many countries affected women in particular, given the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war.
ETHIOPIA: Walta Information Centre reported on 22 October on the Global Open Day on Women and Peace and Security held at United Nations Headquarters in New York. The article noted that UNFPA launched a new report that found that discrimination against women not only exposes them to the worst effects of disaster and war, including rape, but also deprives their countries of a prime engine for recovery. The State of World Population 2010 “is about the three Rs: resilience, renewal and redefining roles between boys and girls and men and women,” Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid said at the official launch in London of the report, which uses stories of individuals affected by conflict or catastrophe in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan, Liberia, the occupied Palestinian territory, Timor-Leste and Uganda to bring home its message. Read: Walta Information Centre
FINLAND: Global reported on the State of World Population 2010 report, stating that gender roles are turned upside down in conflicts, putting emphasis on women’s vulnerability during war and crisis. Read in Finnish: Global
FRANCE: AFP reported on 20 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report. Sexual violence as a weapon of war and as an outcome of turmoil and disaster is inflicting a terrifying toll on women, the United Nations said on 20 October. "Women rarely wage war, but they too often suffer the worst of its consequences," UNFPA said in its annual snapshot of the state of the world's population. "Gender-based violence, including rape, is a repugnant and increasingly familiar weapon of war. The immediate toll it takes extends far beyond its direct victims, insidiously tearing apart families and shattering societies for generations to come." Read: AFP and in French: AFP
Radio France Internationale, United Nations Radio, TV5 world service and AITV featured interviews on 20 October with the Chief of UNFPA's Gender, Human Rights and Culture Branch on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report.
La Croix and RFI reported on 20 October that rape and other gender-based violence is increasing and the way to fight it is to empower women, according to a UN report. The State of World Population 2010, produced by UNFPA, has been issued in the run-up to the tenth anniversary of a Security Council resolution which condemns violence against women and girls. Read: RFI and La Croix
GERMANY: Deutsche Press-Agentur reported on 20 October that discrimination against women and girls makes them more vulnerable to the devastating effects of war and natural disasters, according to a new United Nations report. Recovering from catastrophe is also hampered if one gender is denied the chance for equal opportunity. “If we're serious about preventing conflicts, recovering from war and natural disaster and building lasting peace, we need to empower women, as well as the young and the elderly, to become agents of positive change,” said Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, the head of UNFPA. Read: DPA
GEORGIA: The Messenger reported on 22 October that UNFPA published The State of World Population 2010. According to the report, 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. The report’s release coincides with the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Security Council’s landmark resolution 1325, which aimed to put a stop to sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflict and to encourage greater participation by women in peacebuilding initiatives. “When women and girls suffer deep discrimination, they are more vulnerable to the worst effects of disaster or war, including rape, and less likely to contribute to peacebuilding, which threatens long-term recovery,” said UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid at the launch of the report.
GUATEMALA: Cerigua reported on 23 October that armed conflicts and natural disasters cause physical and psychological trauma that has a particularly strong impact on women, boys and girls, according to Noemí Espinosa, a UNFPA expert. Ms. Espinosa spoke at the release of the State of World Population 2010 report. Read in Spanish: Cerigua
Prensa Libre reported on 23 October on the release of UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report. The report found that life expectancy in Guatemala is 67.3 years for men and 74.4 years for women. Read in Spanish: Prensa Libre
GUINEA-CONAKRY: Radio Soleil, Djigui FM and Espace FM reported on 20 October on UNFPA´s launch of the State of Population 2010 report. UNFPA Representative Marcelle Chevallier, discussed the important role women play in the restoration of peace and the need to use effective ways to protect them.
HAITI: AlterPresse, Expreso Ecuador (Ecuador), The Jamaica Gleaner (Jamaica) and Nation News (Jamaica and Barbados) reported on 18-22 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report, highlighting comments by Igor Bosc, UNFPA Haiti Representative. Mr. Bosc underscored the fact that the earthquake destroyed the vast majority of the health facilities in Port-au-Prince which has caused great concern to his organization as the country’s fertility rate has tripled. "This is why it is troubling for us. We are trying to call attention to the international community and the national players to respond to this crisis," Bosc said. He told journalists that there has been an increase in violence against women. "Only 12 per cent of the population use condoms and the prevalence of HIV is likely to increase," he said. Read: Jamaica Gleaner, Nation News (22 October) and Nation News (18 October), in Spanish: Expreso Ecuador and in French: AlterPresse
IRAN: Hamshahri, Isna and IRNA reported on 20-25 October that the State of World Population 2010 report, published by UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, was released. The report’s release coincides with the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Security Council’s landmark resolution 1325, which aimed to put a stop to sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflict and to encourage greater participation by women in peacebuilding initiatives. “When women and girls suffer deep discrimination, they are more vulnerable to the worst effects of disaster or war, including rape, and less likely to contribute to peacebuilding, which threatens long-term recovery,” said UNFPA’s Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid at the launch of the report. Read: IRNA and in Farsi: ISNA
IRELAND: The Irish Times reported on 21 October that governments should seize opportunities arising out of post-conflict or disaster recovery to address gender inequalities, according to UNFPA. The recommendation is made in UNFPA ’s annual State of World Population report, which was launched yesterday. This year’s report examines how “conflict and protracted humanitarian emergencies affect women and girls – and men and boys.” Speaking at the Dublin launch, Seán Hand of UNFPA said that while conflict and disaster can deepen inequalities between men and women, the recovery process presents a “unique opportunity” to “rectify inequalities, ensure equal protection under the law, and create space for positive change.” The Dublin launch was hosted by the Irish Family Planning Association, UNFPA’s partner in Ireland. The event was one of more than 140 such events taking place in as many countries worldwide to mark the report’s release. Read: The Irish Times
ITALY: Multiple media outlets reported on 20-24 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report by Marina Mancielli. Watch in Italian: Radio Radicale and ASCA
JAMAICA: The Jamaica Gleaner reported on 22 October on the release of the State of World Population 2010 report in London. “This year's report calls attention to the devastating and unacceptable sexual violence in countries affected by conflict. As an international community, we have not been able to prevent this crime and human-rights violation. This report calls for urgent and concerted action to protect women, prevent sexual violence, stop impunity and injustice," said UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid. Jamaica Gleaner
JORDAN: The Jordan Times reported on 21 October that public agencies and NGOs have played a key role in assisting the nearly half-a-million displaced Iraqis estimated to reside in the Kingdom, according to a UN report released on 20 October.
UNFPA launched its annual State of World Population report 2010 titled “From Conflict and Crises to Renewal: Generations of Change,” which drew upon the experiences of women and girls, men and boys, living in the wake of conflict and other “catastrophic disruptions.” Read: The Jordan Times
KENYA: Capital FM reported on 21 October that this year's United Nations report on State of World Population 2010 shows that women and children suffer most in conflict and disaster situations which make them most vulnerable to gender-based violence. Speaking during the launch of the report, UNFPA Representative Fidelis Zama Chi asked governments to pay attention to sexual violence especially in countries affected by conflict. "We are also aware of how the African region is torn by conflict. Even if the country is not in a state of crisis, it still has a role to play and the role will be… what can we do to help those in this situation?" he said. Read: Capital FM
Daily Nation reported on 21 October that fresh investigations are needed to expose police officers and militiamen who raped women in the 2007 post-election violence. Key speakers at the function to launch the State of World Population 2010 report expressed fears that ongoing investigations meant to trace key masterminds of the violence may spare people who executed sexual offences, including youths and neighbors. They called for an independent local arrangement, parallel to the International Criminal Court procedures, to deal with culprits of rape and put in place mechanisms of dealing with such vice. UNFPA assistant country representative Cecilia Kimemia called on the government to implement the Waki report on post-election violence’s recommendations on rape. She suggested that the troubled Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission expose men who raped women during the post-election violence and propose a healing process. ‘‘We hope the report’s recommendations will not be ignored,” she said. Read: Daily Nation
REPUBLIC OF KOREA: Korea Times, Chosunilbo and Dong-A Ilbo reported on 21 October that South Korea has the 26th largest population in the world this year. The latest report from UNFPA showed its population hitting 48.5 million this year, up 200,000 from the previous year. But despite the gain in the total number of people, South Korea's average fertility rate covering the past five years is the third lowest among 186 countries surveyed. According to the report, the country’s fertility rate is 1.24, just behind Hong Kong’s 1.01 and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s 1.21. Read: Korea Times, Chosun Ilbo and Dong-A Ilbo
KYRGYZSTAN: Baldar and 24 news agency reported on 21 October on the launch of the SWOP report. Read in Russian: Baldar and 24
LIBERIA: The Inquirer reported on 20 October that President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has shown gratitude for UNFPA for what she calls its past and present support to the country, especially in the direction of highlighting the Liberian state of affairs in its 2010 report on conflict and women issues. Gender Minister Varbah Gayflor, who represented President Sirleaf at the first celebrations of World Statistics Day which was concomitantly observed yesterday between the Liberia Institute for Statistics and Geo Information Services (LISGIS) and UNFPA, as part of the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report, said, “Uion from brutal civil crisis to national renewal is featured in this report.” Read: The Inquirer
MADAGASCAR: La Verite reported on 21 October that the report on the State of World Population 2010 has been presented by UNFPA Representative, Mr. Cheikh Cissé at a press conference.
MEXICO: CIMAC reported on 20 October that when peace comes, the survivors of conflicts and natural disasters, face new realities, including an increase in violence against women, changes in gender roles and economic instability, according to the State of World Population 2010 report, published by UNFPA. Read in Spanish: CIMAC
Notimex reported on 20 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report by UNFPA. The report, which links peace, security and development with the rights and empowerment of women, presents stories of women affected by conflict and catastrophe in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, among other places. Read in Spanish: Notimex
Universia reported on 20 October that Mexico continues to record one of the highest illiteracy rates in Latin America. According to a report by UNFPA, 5.4 per cent of men and 8.5 per cent of women over 15 are illiterate. Read in Spanish: Universia
MOLDOVA: The Times reported on 22 October that the 2010 edition of the State of World Population report released globally on 20 October describes the situation of women and girls in emergencies, wars and natural disasters. UNFPA organized the launch of the event in Hincesti rayon, where, the same day, a three-day seminar for medical workers about medical care in emergencies with a focus on reproductive health started. Read in Romanian: The Times
NEPAL: Kathmandu Post reported on 24 October that Nepal’s total population will reach 40 million by 2050, according to a UNFPA report. The estimate has been made on the basis of the country’s average growth rate of 1.8 per cent between 2005 and 2010.The report also shows that 19 per cent of Nepal’s population lives in urban areas.
Read: Kathmandu Post
NIGERIA: The Daily Independent reported on 23 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 newly launched State of World Population 2010 report, published by UNFPA. Read: The Daily Independent
APA reported on 21 October that Nigeria’s population is projected to reach 289 million by 2050 making it the fifth most populous country in the world, UNFPA says in a report. The country’s current population, according to the UN, is 158. 3 million. In its yearly report entitled: The State of the World Population 2010, UNFPA says the world's population currently stands at about 6.9 and is projected to increase to 9.1 billion in 2050. Read: APA
NORWAY: ABC Nyheter and Aftenposten reported on 21 October on the State of World Population report. ABC Nyheter stated that, according to the report, sexualized violence is used as a weapon in wars and the result of disasters have devastating consequences for women. Aftenposten covered the Liberian case from the report in an article stressing the need to prosecute sexual criminals, during and also after wartime. Read in Norwegian: ABC Nyheter and Aftenposten
PAKISTAN: Express Tribune reported on 21 October that UNFPA launched the State of World Population 2010 report in Islamabad, focusing on the role of women in dealing with humanitarian crisis and conflicts. The report claims 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. “Many women and young people have overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and begun rebuilding their lives and laying the foundation for peace and renewal of their societies,” said Rabbi Royan, Technical Advisor on Population and Development of UNFPA. Read: Express Tribune
PAPUA NEW GUINEA/SOLOMON ISLANDS: Radio Australia (Australia) reported on 20 October that UNFPA has released its latest report on the State of World Population. It finds that while the past ten years has seen falling adolescent population and an increase in the use of contraception, overall progress has slowed on universal access to reproductive health. In the Pacific, geography can be a key obstacle, especially with countries like the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea where there's little improvement made. The report also conicides with the tenth anniversary of UN Security Council resolution 1325. Read: Radio Australia
PARAGUAY: Neike reported on 20 October that when women have the same rights and opportunities as men, they are more resilient in the face of conflict and disaster and can lead reconstruction and renewal of societies, according to the 2010 State of the World Population, released on 20 October by UNFPA. Read in Spanish: Neike
THE PHILIPPINES: The Manila Bulletin reported on 21 October that the Aquino administration will be revealing the complete slate of the members of the peace panel for the revival of peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF). Secretary Teresita Deles, Presidential Adviser on Peace Process, said the reconstituted peace panel sends a signal for the resumption of peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA-NDF. “With the formation of a peace panel, we will be able to know how we can move forward for the peace negotiations,” Deles said during the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report in Makati. The peace adviser also noted that the government is geared towards the resumption of peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Read: The Manila Bulletin
PORTUGAL: Multiple media outlets reported on 20 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report by Tania Patriota with the presence of Catarina Furtado, UNFPA Goodwill ambassador. Read in Portuguese: Tvi24, IOL, Sol, Bomdia.eu, Correio do Minho
SENEGAL: Agence de Presse Senegalaise reported on 20 October on UNFPA's State of World Population 2010 report. Read in French: Agence de Presse Senegalaise
SIERRA LEONE: Awoko reported on 26 October that the Minister of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Soccoh Kabia has officially launched the State of World Population 2010 report on the theme, “From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change.” The ceremony was held at the Atlantic Hall of the National Stadium in Freetown. This year’s report focuses on issues that are critical to the development and well-being of human societies everywhere and also highlights the fundamental changes in societies who have staggered out of brutal wars and the new realities they face: changes in gender roles, new power relationships within families, unsettled village communities and traditional cultures influx. Furthermore, the release of the State of World Population report 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 peacebuilding. Read: Awoko
SPAIN: Multiple media outlets reported on 20 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report in Madrid. Read in Spanish: Ameco Press, Ecodiario, Expansion.com, Europa Press, Humanista.tv, El Mundo, Periodista Digital and SINC
SOUTH AFRICA: SAPA reported on 20 October that infant mortality rates, a measure of the number of babies that die in the first year of life, are lower in Botswana and Namibia than they are in South Africa. According to a table of indicators contained in UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report, infant mortality in South Africa is 43 per 1,000 live births. The 2010 report also contains a comparison, by country, of reproductive health indicators, including births per 1,000 woman aged 15-19, and contraceptive and HIV prevalence rates. It says that in sub-Saharan Africa, the Southern Africa region has by far the lowest adolescent birth rate - 61 per 1,000 girls - and the highest contraceptive prevalence, at 59% for all methods and 58% for so-called modern methods. Read: SAPA
SUDAN: Sudan Vision Daily and Al Sahafa published a UNFPA statement on 20 October on the State of World Population 2010 report. The “report reflects that while women rarely wage war, they suffer the worst of its consequences, and when they 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,” said UNFPA-Sudan. Read: Sudan Vision Daily and in Arabic: Al Sahafa
SWEDEN: Sveriges Radio and U-landsnyt reported on the Swedish launch held with the participation of Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson and UNFPA Deputy Executive Director Mari Simonen. Sveriges Radio featured an interview with Ms. Simonen and Gunilla Carlsson. Read in Swedish: Moderaterna and Sveriges Radio
Expressen published an op-ed on the UNFPA report on 24 October by Minister Gunilla Carlsson, stating that women’s participation in peace processes is crucial in order to obtain sustainable peace. Read in Swedish: Expressen
SWITZERLAND: Multiple media outlets reported on 20 October on the release of the State of World Population 2010 report, quoting UNFPA’s Thoraya Obaid, Bettina Maas and Renate Baehr, Director of the German Foundation for World Population, DSW. They focus on maternal mortality and family planning, saying that each year 80 million women are getting pregnant but don’t want to. The second part of the article is about gender and conflict and the roles that women play in reconstructing societies and that they should not be discriminated against but empowered. Read in German: Sonntag Zeitung and NZZ
TANZANIA: The Citizen reported on 21 October on new life expectancy estimates reported in UNFPA’s State of World Population 2010 report , noting that the country now leads sub-Saharan Africa in life expectancy. The State of World Population 2010 report says that while a Tanzanian woman is assured of living an average of 57 years and seven months, a man can live up to 56 years and one month. Read: The Citizen
The Guardian and Daily News reported on 21 and 22 October that United Nations Resident Coordinator Alberic Kacou commended the government for such an achievement in hosting refugees from Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda and Burundi. Mr. Kacou, however, said that UNFPA and UNHCR were still assessing the refugee situation. A short film shown at the event which witnessed the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report, under the theme ‘From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change’ provided evidence on the decent life that refugees were living in Nyarugusu Camp in North West Kigoma Region. “To take this theme to the Tanzania context, UNFPA and UNHCR have come together, in a spirit of ‘delivering as one UN’, to focus on Tanzania’s landmark achievements in hosting refugees from neighbouring countries of DRC, Rwanda and Burundi,” he said. Read: The Guardian and Daily News
THAILAND/SRI LANKA: Reuters Alertnet featured an interview on 21 October with Sunila Abeysekera, who received the U.N. Human Rights Prize in 1988 and was named Human Rights Defender of the Year by Human Rights Watch in 2007. Ms. Abeysekera was interviewed at the Bangkok launch of the State of World Population 2010 report, which says rape is being used increasingly as a weapon of war and that the international community has failed to prevent it. Read: Alertnet
THE NETHERLANDS: Radio Netherlands Worldwide reported on 20 October that things are going better for women in former war and crisis regions. They are playing a greater role in the reconstruction of their country. Sexual violence remains a problem, although some good developments have been reported. In the Palestinian territories, for example, the United Nations has helped set up centres where women can access know-how, support and training courses. Jamilah Mahmood of UNFPA summarized the organization's annual report, the State of World Population 2010, which was published around the world on 20 October. The Netherlands is UNFPA's biggest donor. This year's report looks at countries attempting to rebuild after wars and the traumas which continue to affect them long after the war has ended. Read: Radio Netherlands Worldwide
TIMOR LESTE: Timor Post reported on 21 October on the launch of the State of World Population 2010 report. UNFPA Representative, Mr. Pornchai Suchitta remarked that cases from Timor-Leste were also submitted in the 2010 SWOP, with the theme “From conflict and crisis to renewal: generations of change,” as this country is one of the nations that have experienced post conflict and disaster and is now moving into unity recuperation.
Voxy (New Zealand) reported on 18 October that, with a press conference, the UNFPA Country Office in Timor-Leste will launch the State of World Population (SWOP) 2010 report. With the theme "From Conflict and Crisis to Renewal: Generations of Change," this year the SWOP, for the first time, includes Timor-Leste's case as part of the countries that have experienced conflict or disasters and are on the road to recovery. The release of the State of World Population 2010 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. Read: Voxy
UGANDA: The Daily Monitor and The New Vision reported and NTV featured interviews with UNFPA staff on 21 October on the release of the State of World Population 2010 report. Speaking at the launch of the State of the World and Uganda Population reports, Janet Jackson said there is much at stake for societies when there is continued exclusion of women in the process of the post-conflict rebuilding and recovery of their communities. “Women’s participation is central to understanding post-conflict trauma as well as the determination and will to move on. It is critical for efforts to prevent war, build peace and restore devastated societies,” Ms. Jackson said. Read: The Daily Monitor and The New Vision
U.K.: The Guardian reported on 20 October that UNFPA's State of World Population 2010 report, released today, focuses on the effect of conflict and protracted humanitarian emergencies on women and girls, and shows why the development community should be talking, and talking seriously, about conflict. Timed to coincide with the 10-year anniversary of the UN security council resolution on women, peace and security, the report tries to answer the question: "Are women in war-torn countries faring any better today than they were a decade ago?" The conclusions are mixed, and the report criticises the over-simplified but well-circulated images of women in conflict. Read: The Guardian
UNITED STATES: The New York Times reported on 20 October on the release of UNDESA’s World’s Women 2010 report, which marked World Statistics Day and the release of the State of World Population 2010 report by UNFPA. The article noted that “Although the 255-page report shows that women have made progress in areas like health and education — elementary school enrollment is now the same for boys and girls — they still lag over all. ‘Much more needs to be done, in particular the need to close the gender gap in public life and to prevent many forms of violence against women,’ said Jomo Kwame Sundaram, the assistant secretary general who released the report in New York. A second hefty report by UNFPA, released the same day, digs deep into areas where positive news is much harder to find: the harm visited on women. It suggested that helping women and children recover from the sexual violence and other trauma they suffer in war or natural disasters is a key to moving countries forward on all fronts. Women savagely raped during the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina still suffer from limited access to counseling 15 years after the peace treaty, the report noted.” Read: The New York Times
VIET NAM: Voice of Viet Nam reported on 21 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 report, published by UNFPA. When women and girls suffer deep discrimination, they are more vulnerable to the worst effects of disaster or war, including rape, and less likely to contribute to peacebuilding, which threatens long-term recovery. The report’s release coincides with the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Security Council’s landmark resolution 1325, which aimed to put a stop to sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflict and to encourage greater participation by women in peacebuilding initiatives. Read in Vietnamese: VOV
THAILAND: Cities Key to Disaster Risk Reduction
IRIN reported on 12 October on the importance of improving the resiliency of cities. Experts say this is critical for Asia – where many fast-growing, high-density settlements exist in low-lying, flood-prone areas or on earthquake fault-lines. Seven of the 10 most populous cities in the world are in Asia and the region’s urban population is expected to double from 1.36 to 2.64 billion by 2030, according to UNFPA. But until now, only 60 cities in the region have signed up to the campaign pledging to invest in infrastructure, better land-planning and awareness-raising. Read: IRIN
THAILAND: UNFPA Supports Project on Population Ageing
H-Plus TV reported on 29 July on the work of a UNFPA-supported project which addresses the rapid population ageing in Thailand where the concerned government offices and civil society network cooperate in a manner to improve access of older persons to economic security, health and social services and welfare.
CONTINUING COVERAGE ON WORLD POPULATION DAY 2010
ARMENIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 13 July on the celebration of World Population Day in Armenia. UNFPA and partners held the event to highlight the crucial role of data for development instrumental for better tracking and measuring progress toward achievement of the MDGs and for providing an evidence base to guide national policy making. On the occasion of this globally observed day UNFPA in collaboration with partners launched the findings of three nation-wide representative surveys on fertility patterns and preferences and intimate partner violence in Armenia. Dafina Gercheva, UN Resident Coordinator and UNFPA Representative in Armenia stated in remarks opening the event, “Data helps leaders and policy-makers to make informed decisions about policies and programmes to reduce poverty and hunger, and advance education, health and gender equality.” Read: Armenian Public Radio in Armenian: Armenpress
BANGLADESH: The Daily Star published an op-ed by Md. Asadullah Khan on 15 July on rapid national and global population growth and the history of population policies. Mr. Khan wrote, “While observing the World Population Day, with the slogan ‘Everyone counts,’ stalwarts in the administration and experts in population science cautioned that this unplanned growth of population would further complicate the process of meeting the demand for food, basic health requirements and educational facilities -- triggering unemployment and social unrest in the country.” He called for a renewed family planning effort in Bangladesh “Endorsing the views of Alex Marshall of the UN Population Fund, the programme should be launched in such a humane manner that it does not hurt the sentiments of the rural people. The message should be; there is no such thing as population control. Alex says: ‘You don't control it. You allow people to make up their mind.’” Read: The Daily Star
BOTSWANA: BOPA reported on 16 July on commemorations of World Population Day. UNFPA Representative Sarah Masale said censuses are central to their mandate and mission, adding in Botswana they are substantially involved in the preparations of the forthcoming census exercise hence they are providing technical assistance and material support. She said the census and population data play a critical role in the development and humanitarian response and recovery.
BURKINA FASO: Sidwaya and Le Pays reported on 8 July on the official ceremony of the commemoration of the World Population Day 2010 in Ouagadougou. The Representative of UNICEF Coordinator ad interim read the message which the General Secretary of United Nations delivered at the time of the World Population Day and Sankara Olga, Officer in Charge of UNFPA/Burkina delivered the message of the Executive Director of the UNFPA. Read in French: Sidwaya
CAMEROON: Cameroon Tribune reported on 15 July that the MINEPAT (ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development) and development partners praised the UNFPA country's efforts to update demographic data. The WPD celebration took place in Maroua, the capital of the Far-North region. The 2010 celebration of the World Population Day coincided with the year during which results of the third General Population and Housing Census were published. UNFPA Representative Alain Sibenaler said that this is a great opportunity for Cameroon to access to reliable data because it is one of the conditions of good governance, transparency and effective accountability. He noted that the demographic data helps leaders to make good decisions. Regarding policies and programmes to fight against poverty and hunger and promote education, health and gender equality, Mr. Sibenaler noted that the MDGs in Cameroon show some progress but require stronger action on MDGs 4 and 5 – at the core of all the other MDGs. Walking the talk, UNFPA donated a large consignment of medical equipment, valuated at 15 million CFA francs to the Maroua Regional Hospital.
CAPE VERDE: Multiple media outlets reported on 11-12 July on events marking World Population Day in the country, including a workshop The workshop addressed the theme of Cape Verde’s upcoming census theme “All of us count and we count with all of you,” which fits with this year’s World Population Day theme, “Everyone Counts.” In addition to the workshop, numerous public events were held, and players in the country’s football final wore shirts publicing the theme. Read in Portuguese: RTC and Listen in Portuguese: RTC
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Les Depeches de Brazzaville, DRTV, TV-Congo and Congo-site reported on 11-14 July on the celebration of World Population Day. At the launching ceremony with Women's Affairs Minister, Ms. Jeanne Francoise Leckomba Loumeto and Economy Minister Cabinet Director, UNFPA Representative, Mr. David Lawson saluted the Government completion of the 2007 Population Census. Results should be publicly announced shortly. Mr. Lawson congratulated the Government for financing up to 98 per cent of its census, a rare and noteworthy situation in Africa. He said: "in Congo like elsewhere, the census is essential for the economic development of the country, and must be exempt of non technical considerations." Read in French: Congo-Site, Congo-Site and Watch in French: TV-Congo
COSTA RICA: Multiple media outlets reported on 13-14 July that although the population census will begin in May 2011, with a trial of the census questionnaire to be held between the 23 and 27 August in the community of Palmares. The questionnaire, which includes 30 questions on population and 21 related to housing, will be tested. This information was unveiled during the celebration of World Population Day, organized by UNFPA and National Institute of Statistics and Censuses. Read in Spanish: Diario Extra, La Nación, La prensa Libre
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO: Le Potential reported on 13 July and Uhuru published on 12 June an op-ed by UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Obaid marking World Population Day. Le Potentiel noted UNFPA’s support for the government’s census planning. Read in French: Le Potentiel and Uhuru
ETHIOPIA: Ethiopian News Agency reported on 15 July that Finance and Economic Development State Minister, Mekonen Manyazewal said government is endeavoring to ensure population sensitive sustainable development. Addressing a symposium held in connection with World Population Day, the minister said effective implementation of the national population policy is vital to ensure sustainable development. The head of UNFPA's Ethiopia office, Benoit Kalasa lauded Ethiopia’s effort to control population growth to reduce poverty in the country. Read: Ethiopian News Agency
THE GAMBIA/THE PHILLIPINES: The Daily Observer (The Gambia) published an editorial on 12 July marking World Population Day and noting that UNFPA, in a statement released for World Population Day, called on governments to promote women's reproductive health and prevent maternal and child deaths through family planning programmes and the use of contraceptives. Even the person in charge of direct aid for the poor in the Philippines, Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza Cabral, is pushing for the passage of the Reproductive Health Bill as resources shrink in the recession and the population continues to boom. Read: The Daily Observer
GUATEMALA: The Guatemala Times reported on 13 July on celebrations of World Population Day, noting that UNFPA works with many partners, both within and outside the United Nations system, including governments, non-governmental organizations, civil society, faith-based organizations, religious leaders and others, to achieve its mission. To better respond to local needs, UNFPA increasingly devotes resources to country-led efforts, placing emphasis on country-focused and country-led implementation to achieve improved results, at the same time addressing mutual accountability and strengthening harmonization and alignment. Read: The Guatemala Times
GUINEA-BISSAU: Nô Pintcha reported on 15 July on the celebration of World Population Day on 9 July. World Population day 2010 had the theme "Everyone Counts” with a focus 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 in order to make the most efficient investments that meet the needs and circumstances of the population and help to 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. Read in Portuguese: Nô Pintcha
HAITI: Multiple media outlets reported on 8-18 July that World Population Day was celebrated around the topic “Everyone Counts.” The topic “Everyone count” is chosen to stress the census cycle 2010, data analysis for development and the leading role of the agency in terms of population and development. As part of World Population Day celebrations, a workshop was held in Port-au-Prince on the topic of new technologies for census-taking. In addition, stories addressed the upcoming census, the first since the devastating January 2010 earthquake. An accurate will play a crucial role in setting policies. Read in French: AHP Haiti, AlterPresse (18 July) Haiti en Marche, HPN Haiti, AlterPresse (8 July) and in Spanish: AlterPresse
INDONESIA: UN Radio reported on 15 July and Sinar Harapan reported on 13 July that Indonesia does not have data on maternal mortatlity at the district level. Zahidul Huque, UNFPA Representative said, “Maternal mortality in Indonesia is quite high given its economic condition and the infrastructure and we really need to have some good base line that we can refer to because right now we don't have data on maternal mortality at district level, but with the census we can have it at the district level." Read: UN Radio and Read in Bahasa Indonesia: Sinar Harapan
The Jakarta Post reported on 12 July that UNFPA Representative in Indonesia Zahidul Huque said the UN body expected the Indonesian census would provide specific data on instances of maternal mortality, to help Indonesia reach its Millennium Development Goals. “Maternal mortality is still common in Indonesia, but we need a baseline to work with as a reference,” Mr. Huque said. Read: The Jakarta Post
IRAN: IRNA reported on 8 July on UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon’s statement marking World Population Day. “This year, some 6O countries are collecting data and counting people as part of the 2O1O census process. A census is the only statistical operation that covers the whole population and all areas of a country. UNFPA and other partners are supporting this massive effort in many parts of the world" Secretary Ban said.
JAMAICA: Multiple media outlets reported on 12-15 July events marking World Population Day in Jamaica, including an event attended by UNFPA sub-regional office for the Caribbean, Hernando Agudelo, where plans for the the country’s upcoming census were discussed. Read: Jamaica Gleaner, Jamaica Observer, Kingston Chronicle
MALAWI: The Nation reported on 16 July on the commemoration of World Population Day in the country, which included UNFPA-sponsored public lectures around the day’s theme of “Everyone Counts.” The events addressed population and development issues, including the country’s ongoing rapid population growth.
NAMIBIA: The New Era reported on 13 July that Namibia commemorated World Population Day with the main event taking place in the Khomas Region. UNFPA Representative Fabian Byomuhangi, who read a speech on behalf of the UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, said: “The theme everyone counts is a theme that speaks of the inherent value and dignity of each human being.” Read: The New Era
NICARAGUA: La Prensa reported on 17 July on the release of a study on population dynamics in Nicaragua released to coincide with World Population Day. According to the study, Managua has expanded so much that the recently named Metropolitan Region and is composed of 30 municipalities in the four departments in the country. Read in Spanish: La Prensa
NIGER: L’Evènement, Le Sahel and l’Indépendant Plus reported on 13-15 July on the celebration of the World Population Day in Tahoua. The Minister of Population, the UNFPA Representative and the Governor of the Tahoua region, highlighted the importance of collecting data as a planning tool for development in their speeches. After the ceremony, they visited a health centre of women living with fistula and waiting for treatment.
NIGERIA: This Day reported on 15 July that as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to mark World Population Day, stakeholders yesterday in Abuja said effective use of population data and statistics remains a key strategy to attaining the objectives of the Millennium Development Goals Challenge. This was the submission by Discussants at the event declared to mark World Population Day, according to the Executive Director of the National Population Commission, Samu'ila Danko Makama, "the Federal Government is conscious of the significant role of statistical data in its commitment to providing better life for Nigerians, the key to fulfilling the MDGs target, is availability of data, after the 2006 census exercise, efforts have been made to ensure that this primary objective is met." Also speaking at the event, UNFPA Resident Representative Agathe Lawson observed that, "with world attention focused on achieving the MDGs by 2015, and the up coming summit, the availability of consistent and comparable statistical information has become even more crucial.” Read: This Day
PAKISTAN: Dawn reported on 12 July on World Population Day, noting that Pakistan has a large population and a high population growth rate. It is home to 180 million people, half of which are women, with 4.8 million children added every year. Somewhere in the country, every hour, three women die because of pregnancy associated complications - amounting to more than 30,000 women dying every year. According to UNFPA, one in three of all deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth could be avoided if women who wanted effective contraception had access to it. Family Planning is no doubt one of the most effective and cheapest interventions available for optimal birth spacing and to improve maternal, newborn and child health. Read: DAWN
SENEGAL: Le Soleil reported on 12 July on the celebration of World Population Day. At an event marking World Population Day, UNFPA Representative Rose Gakuba advocated for improving the availability and use of population data for strategic planning of development particularly in poverty reduction program. This year’s theme, “Everyone Counts,” also drew attention to the process of preparation General Census of Population and Housing (GCPH), which will held on 2011. It will be combined with the second national census of agriculture (NAS), the first census of livestock and the Demographic and Health Survey. UNFPA is supporting GCPH and DHS. Read in French: Le Soleil and Le Soleil
SUDAN: Sudan National TV reported on 18 July that the National Population Council in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund celebrated the World Population Day in Khartoum. UNFPA Officer in Charge, Sharareh Amirkhalili addressed the event stressing the significance of data in development planning in Sudan. Ms. Amirkhalili reiterated the importance of capacity development in the areas of not only data collection but also analysis, dissemination, and utilization of data to strengthen Sudan’s institutional capacity for integration of population issues into development planning, particularly at the local level where the need is greater.
SWAZILAND: The Times of Swaziland and The Swazi Observer reported on 15 July on remarks by Prime Minister Sibusiso Barnabas Dlamini and Edwin Huiszen, Director of the UNFPA Sub-Regional Office for East and Southern Africa to mark World Population Day. Both commented on the country’s falling life expectancy and rising maternal and newborn mortality, both of which are connected to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
TANZANIA: IPP Media published an editorial on 15 July on World Population Day. It wrote, “UNFPA has been celebrating the World Population Day, reflecting on its activities in various countries, especially the developing ones, where it is supporting countries' efforts to build capacities for data collection and analysis, especially through the population and Housing censuses. Its theme this year is:"Everyone counts." It is a theme which UNFPA Representative Julitta Onabanjo said reflected the importance of population census and surveys in national development planning, reiterating UNFPA's role in assisting poor countries to carry them out.
THAILAND: Multiple media outlets reported on 9-18 July on World Population Day commemorations in Thailand and around the world. UNFPA was an organizer of a seminar on 9 July where Najib Assifi, UNFPA Representative in Thailand and Deputy Regional Director, Asia and the Pacific Regional Office, opened the function at noon followed by the Prime Minister's key note speech on "Better Data: Better Development" which emphasized the importance of data for development and challenges Thailand is facing from the rapid population aging, high population mobility and foreign migrants. An expert panel discussed the rapid demographic changes under way in Thailand and highlighted the important role census data can play in national development and business planning. At the same function, there was a screening of "Everyone Counts," a film produced by UNFPA Thailand to promote the upcoming census in Thailand was very much impressed by the audience.
URUGUAY: Multiple media outlets reported on 10-15 July on an event to celebrate World Population Day. UNFPA presented with the University of the Republic the first master program in the country on demography and population studies. Presenters highlighted the importance of demographic data to better attend population needs and stressed that the census foreseen for 2011 will increase substantially the amount and quality of demographic data, then improving policy making in the country. The last census was carried out in 1996. Read in Spanish: El Observador, Espectador, Sociedad Uruguaya, IPS and Semanario Eco,
THAILAND: Campaign to Raise Awareness of Safe Sex
Media Asia reported 26 January that UNFPA is promoting women's rights in Thailand with a print and outdoor campaign. Creative agency Grey Bangkok has released a series of print ads and brochures designed to generate awareness of safe sex among women, especially pregnant women. The campaign promotes a positive attitude towards the use of female condoms. Interestingly, one of the print ads features two male characters illustrating that female condoms are also applicable to men. Read: Media Asia
THAILAND: Once Torn Artist Now Comes To Life
The Bangkok Post published an interview 17 November with Natalie Imbruglia, who said “I am a spokesperson for the UNFPA, it's a campaign I've supported that fights against obstetric fistula. It helps women who have suffered from bearing a child surgery. It is tragic to hear the stories of these women in which the only thing they did was to get pregnant and wanting to be a mother. But sadly these symptoms ruined their lives. We've been raising awareness, as well as a fund to support health care and education for them. This year, we just did a speech at the UN. And I hope this issue would be brought up to the government level and implemented in many countries to end this problem.” Read: The Bangkok Post
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