Wednesday, November 19, 2014
International News
A United Nations (UN) report launched today calls for investment in young people as they are essential to social and economic growth.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) report ‘The State of World Population, the Power of 1.8 Billion: Adolescents, Youth and the Transformation of the Future’, shows how the record youth population in the developing world holds the key to progress, but that nations need to invest in their education, health and rights.
UNFPA Executive Director, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin says “young people are the innovators, creators, builders and leaders of the future. But they can transform the future only if they have skills, health, decision-making, and real choices in life”.
The report also talks about the need to protect rights, including reproductive rights, and sexual and reproductive health, and provide skills and knowledge so young people can reach their potential.
The UNFPA report says that never before has the world’s adolescent population been so large. Alongside the issues this presents, there are opportunities that can be harnessed through good policy making and investment in young people.
Together with the Kiribati Family Health Association, we are working to improve access to sexual and reproductive health information and services in South Tarawa.
Voluntary family planning is one of the most effective ways to encourage sustainable development, in particular when facing the needs of young populations.
Family Planning has clinics located throughout New Zealand. Use the clinic finder to find your nearest clinic.
