World Population Day, or International Population Day, is celebrated on July 11. It aims to raise awareness about global population issues and educate people about family planning, gender equality, and reproductive health. This day was established by the United Nations in 1989 and commemorates the “Day of Five Billion” when the world’s population crossed the 5 billion mark.
The executive director of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr Natalia Kanem on July 1, 2024,stated, “World Population Day 2024 is a moment to ask who is still going uncounted and why – and what this costs individuals, societies and our global efforts to leave no one behind. It is also a moment for all of us to commit to doing more to ensure that our data systems capture the full range of human diversity so that everyone is seen, can exercise their human rights and can reach their full potential.”
World Population Day 2024 Theme
The theme for the day changes annually and is decided by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in coordination with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
The theme for this year is ‘To Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone.’
According to United Nations: “Over the past 30 years, we’ve improved how we collect and use population data, leading to better health care and rights. However, marginalized communities are still underrepresented. This World Population Day, we focus on ensuring all groups are counted and visible, highlighting the importance of inclusive data systems to advance progress for everyone. Everyone counts, and our collective progress depends on capturing the full diversity of humanity.”
History
The history of the World Population Day goes back to 1980s. It was on July 11, 1987, when the world population reached approximately five billion. This day brought global focus to issues related to sustainable development, resource management, and the dynamics of population expansion.
Significance
This day is celebrated to raise awareness about the issues of the global population. It also promotes reproductive health services and rights for all individuals, including access to family planning methods and education. The day also signifies the gender equality and empowerment of women. Sustainable development and global cooperation are also promoted.
How To Celebrate
World Population Day is celebrated through various activities and initiatives aimed at raising awareness.
established the Day to be observed annually on July 11.The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted Resolution 45/216 in December 1990, formally establishing the annual observance of the Day. The first World Population Day was celebrated on July 11, 1990, with participation from over 90 countries.
- Public Awareness CampaignsGovernment, NGOs, and international organisations conduct awareness campaigns to educate people about family planning, reproductive health and population issues.
- Seminars and Public lecturesEvents are held at local, national and international levels to provide a deep understanding of the underlying issue.
- Art and Cultural EventsArt exhibitions, and performances are organised to raise awareness creatively.
- Health Camps and ServicesIn several regions, particularly in underserved communities, health camps and outreach programs are organised to provide reproductive health services, family planning counselling, and maternal healthcare.
- Youth EngagementActivities are often targeted towards young people to educate them better about their rights, responsibilities and the choices they can make on their own bodies.
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