Latest news with #StateofWorldPopulation2025
GMA Network
6 days ago
- Health
- GMA Network
The lack of choice: Agency, affordability, and pressures of starting a family
Filipino youth often hear the familiar questions, 'kailan ka mag-aasawa' or 'kailan ka magkaka-anak?' ('When are you going to get married?' or 'when are you going to have kids?'). Rarely do we ask the more important ones: Do you have a real choice? Are you ready - emotionally, financially, and with the support you need? Every August, we observe Family Planning Month in the Philippines and in light of the changing demographics and growing economic pressures, it's more important than ever to reframe the conversation. Placing the focus on the right to choose freely and confidently if, when and how to build a family. For too long, the conversation on family planning in the Philippines has been focused on numbers: on whether our fertility rate is too low or too high. But the real issue goes beyond statistics. UNFPA, the United Nations Sexual and Reproductive Health Agency's State of World Population 2025 (SWOP) report tells us the true challenge is reproductive agency. Simply put, we need to make sure that everyone has the right and ability to decide freely about his/her own family life without pressure and more importantly, without barriers. Think of a young Filipino couple, perhaps like Maria and Jose. They might dream of a big family, just one child, or maybe they prefer to have no children at all. Their choice is deeply personal and valid. What truly matters is that they have the freedom and support to make that decision that their dreams for their family can become a reality. The family picture: A snapshot of where we are Family planning, at its core, is about empowering individuals to achieve their desired family size. This includes crucial access to modern family planning methods vital for preventing unintended pregnancies and planning the timing and spacing of children. Beyond this, it's also about the support, information, and resources people need to realize their reproductive aspirations. Whether that means preventing a pregnancy now, or having the resources and environment to welcome children when they are ready, your family picture is for you to create. In many ways, the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) Law (RA 10354) has already taken this into consideration. It explicitly states that the State recognizes and guarantees "universal access to medically-safe, non-abortifacient, effective, legal, affordable, and quality reproductive health care services, methods, devices, and supplies". Furthermore, it mandates that "each family shall have the right to determine its ideal family size" and that the State shall equip parents with the necessary information on all aspects of family life, including reproductive health and responsible parenthood, to aid in this decision. The question is: how many Filipinos have achieved their desired family size? Analyzing the microdata from the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), we learned that nearly 70 per cent of Filipino women aged 40 and above had a family size that didn't match what they ideally wanted, with 38.1 per cent reporting fewer children than ideal and 30.2 per cent reporting more than ideal. This gap between dreams and reality is at the heart of the "real fertility crisis." Why our desired families remain out of reach What is stopping young Filipinos from starting the families they dream of? UNFPA's report highlights clear barriers, many of which hit close to home, reflecting persistent systemic challenges. The biggest hurdle is often economic insecurity. The SWOP report found that a staggering 39 per cent of people globally cited financial limits as a reason for not having their desired number of children, Beyond direct financial constraints, job insecurity and housing problems continue to be major challenges. For many young Filipinos, this means struggling to find stable, good-paying jobs while coping with the rising costs of basic needs such as housing, transportation, and food. Social factors also play a big part, particularly the unequal sharing of unpaid care work. Women often spend three to ten times more hours on household chores and caring for family members than men. This imbalance limits women's opportunities and directly affects their choices about having children. When couples share these responsibilities more fairly, they feel more supported and confident in building the families they desire. A focus on choice and hope This Family Planning Month, it's time to shift our focus from numbers to people. The real fertility crisis isn't about how many Filipinos there are, but whether every Filipino has the freedom and support to create the family he or she desires, on his/her own terms. To make this a reality, we must collectively commit to action. And that means fully supporting the implementation of the RPRH Law and ensuring adequate budgets are allocated and spent to reach every Filipino. Real progress means fostering more equitable social structures and shared responsibilities within families. We have to confront and actively challenge outdated and unequal gender norms that put the burden mostly on women. Ultimately, we need to provide comprehensive support to young couples and families by directly addressing the economic and social barriers that stand in the way of their reproductive choices and aspirations. This includes investing in job creation, affordable housing and accessible childcare, foundations that allow families to grow with stability and dignity. By investing in comprehensive health services, promoting economic fairness, upholding human rights, and fully implementing the RPRH Law, we can build a world where young people are not held back by barriers beyond their control. A future where Maria and Jose, and all young Filipinos, can start a family if they choose to, not because they are pressured to, and not because they are denied the chance. This is how we build a more equal, sustainable, and hopeful future for everyone. Jose Roi Avena is the assistant representative and officer-in-charge of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in the Philippines.
Iraqi News
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Iraqi News
UNFPA report in Baghdad highlights barriers to family size in Iraq
Baghdad ( – The real population crisis is not one of 'too many' or 'too few' people, but rather the widespread inability of individuals to have the number of children they desire due to economic, social, and political barriers. This was the central message of the United Nations Population Fund's (UNFPA) flagship 'State of World Population 2025' report, which was officially launched in Baghdad on Monday (July 14, 2025) in partnership with the Iraqi Ministry of Planning. The event, held on World Population Day and attended by government representatives, diplomats, and civil society, reframed the demographic debate, shifting the focus from numbers to human rights and choices, with significant implications for Iraq. The report highlights that Iraq's current fertility rate stands at 3.3 children per woman, and 3.2 in the Kurdistan Region. While this is higher than in many parts of the world, the underlying challenges preventing families from achieving their aspirations are universal. The global report, which surveyed 14,000 people across 14 countries, found that while most people desire two or more children, roughly one in five believe they will be unable to achieve their preferred family size. 'Prevailing narratives often present two simplified, contradictory options: either an 'imminent population collapse' or an 'overpopulation crisis',' said Ms. Hind Jalal, the UNFPA Representative in Iraq. 'However, our report reveals a deeper, more complex truth – fertility rates are largely declining because many individuals feel unable to form the families they desire. This is the real crisis.' The report identifies several key obstacles that prevent people from realizing their reproductive goals, many of which are particularly acute in Iraq: Economic Constraints: Over half of all global survey participants cited economic pressures as a primary barrier. This resonates strongly in Iraq, where youth in a country of over 46 million people often struggle to achieve the financial security needed to start and support a family. Access to Healthcare: Limited access to quality, affordable reproductive health and family planning services was another major factor identified. Conflict and Instability: One in five people globally expressed deep anxiety about conflict, environmental challenges, and the political situation. The report notes these are 'tangible factors in Iraq given its history of instability,' influencing long-term family planning decisions. The UNFPA's report is a call to action for governments to move away from population targets and instead focus on creating conditions that empower individuals. This includes ensuring access to a full range of family planning services, dismantling harmful social norms, and building a world where having children is a celebrated choice, not a source of anxiety. 'We must provide an integrated set of family planning services that allow people to make their own decisions freely,' Ms. Jalal concluded. 'And we must work for a world that is sustainable, safe, just, and marked by lasting peace.' The launch in Baghdad underscores the urgency of this message for Iraq's future development.
See - Sada Elbalad
14-07-2025
- Health
- See - Sada Elbalad
UNFPA & Health Min. Underline Reproductive Agency Importance on World Population Day
Rana Atef The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ministry of Health and Population commemorated World Population Day on July 14, where they underlined the importance of reproductive agency, and providing young people with the knowledge, means, and opportunities to build their future. Under the theme "Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world,' the event brought together the representatives of the Bedaya Ministerial Group, along with key development partners and donors, experts in demography and reproductive health, and civil society. UNFPA also launched the global flagship State of World Population 2025 report titled 'The Real Fertility Crisis -The Pursuit of Reproductive Agency,' during the event. The report explains that many individuals, particularly young people, cannot fulfill their fertility aspirations due to different systemic barriers, in alignment with the World Population Day theme. The event saw the participation of Dr Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, General Khayrat Barakat, President of the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS), Counselor Amal Ammar, President of the National Council for Women, Dr. Sahar al-Sonbaty, President of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, Yves Sassenrath, UNFPA Representative in Egypt, and Dr Abla El-Alfy, Deputy Minister of Health and Population for Population and Family Development Affairs, Chairperson of National Population Council. Dr Abdel Ghaffar pointed out that this year's theme reflects a profound commitment to placing youth at the heart of population policies, as they are the cornerstone of sustainable development. He emphasized that empowering youth with knowledge, services, and equal opportunities paves the path to building stable families and a fair society capable of progress. 'Our Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework is fully aligned with Egypt's Vision 2030. It supports Bedaya by building human capital, fostering inclusive growth, advancing gender equality, and promoting strong governance and natural resource stewardship. These efforts reflect our collective commitment. to a future where no one is left behind,' Panova said. 'Empowering women to fulfill their reproductive desires benefits the entire nation, particularly given Egypt's ongoing demographic transition, that will profoundly reshape the country's population age structure. Youth's agency, self-determination, and well-being are pivotal drivers of societal progress and indeed national development,' Sassenrath said. Dr. Abdel Ghaffar and General Khayrat Barakat participated in a high-level panel discussion on the national initiatives working towards fostering reproductive agency and youth empowerment, demonstrating a holistic national commitment to human development, moderated by media personality Osama Kamal. During the event, Dr. Abla al-Alfy, presented the progress achieved with the Accelerated Plan for Population and Development, which seeks to improve population characteristics, reduce the unmet need for family planning and unplanned pregnancies, and ensure sustainable population growth. An in-depth analysis of the findings of the Egypt Family Health Survey 2021, on reproductive agency in Egypt was also presented by Dr. Soha Hassan from CAPMAS. The analyses, conducted jointly by UNFPA and CAPMAS, takes a closer look at contraceptive discontinuation rates, unmet need for family planning, and unplanned pregnancies. Young people also discussed their reproductive aspirations and the perceived barriers and enablers to realize these aspirations in a panel discussion during the event. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Arts & Culture Hawass Foundation Launches 1st Course to Teach Ancient Egyptian Language Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream
BusinessToday
11-07-2025
- Health
- BusinessToday
Why Fertility Rates Don't Tell the Whole Story About Youth and Parenthood
According to a statement from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Pio Smith, millions of young people across Asia and the Pacific still lack the information, support, and autonomy needed to plan their futures. More than 40 per cent of adolescent pregnancies in the region are unintended, putting the health and rights of young people at risk. On World Population Day, Mr. Smith has called for systems that empower young people to make decisions about their futures. He stresses that parenthood should be a choice, not a risk or a burden. Fertility rates are falling throughout Asia and the Pacific. While headlines warn of a looming 'population collapse,' young people are often blamed for turning away from parenthood. Yet the real crisis is not about having 'too many' or 'too few' births. The real issue is whether young people can choose when and how to start or grow a family, on their terms. For many, the answer to the question 'Can I build the life I want?' is a resounding no. In reality, young people across the region and the world are often either excluded from parenthood or pushed into it by systems that fail them. Girls are steered into early motherhood without access to contraception or education. Young couples delay parenthood due to job insecurity, housing unaffordability, or entrenched gender roles. Others are shut out entirely because of their identity, who they love, or where they live. A recent encounter with a 17-year-old mother in a remote part of Vanuatu highlights these challenges. She had walked for hours to reach the nearest clinic—her first experience with healthcare as a young adult. She had no access to contraception or antenatal care, yet she dreamed of finishing school and becoming a teacher. Her aspirations are not unusual, but the obstacles she faces are. Such stories are echoed throughout the region. Over 40 per cent of adolescent pregnancies are unintended, and fewer than one in four sexually active, unmarried adolescents use modern contraception. Barriers are even higher in rural areas, conflict zones, and among marginalised groups, including migrants, LGBTQIA+ youth, young people with disabilities, and ethnic minorities. Social stigma, legal restrictions, and outdated gender norms prevent many young people from accessing the care they need. In crisis-affected regions, health services are often overstretched or absent altogether. These are not just healthcare challenges — they are fundamental injustices. Even where services are available, factors such as economic insecurity, unpaid care responsibilities, and social expectations continue to limit reproductive autonomy. According to UNFPA's State of World Population 2025 report, most people in Thailand want two or more children, yet the fertility rate has dropped to just 1.2 children per woman. In the Republic of Korea, it's 0.8 — the world's lowest. These figures reflect not a rejection of parenthood, but a failure of the systems surrounding young people to support their goals. Reproductive agency is about more than access to services. It means being able to make informed, free choices — without stigma, coercion, or discrimination. It means starting a family, or not, in safety, dignity, and hope. Today's young people face a world marked by climate disasters, economic uncertainty, and rising conflict. Many feel they have inherited a fragile future shaped by decisions made without their input. When hope disappears, so too does the motivation to bring new life into the world. But this outcome is not inevitable. To build stronger families and resilient societies, the conditions for choice and hope must be created. This means providing youth-friendly health services and comprehensive sexuality education, decent jobs, affordable housing, and parental leave. It also requires building safe and inclusive digital spaces and education systems that equip young people to lead and thrive. Investment in youth-led solutions, mentorship, and civic leadership must be treated as priorities, not afterthoughts. None of this can be achieved through one-off incentives or reactive policies. Sustained, long-term investment in systems that uphold rights and dignity is essential, regardless of fertility rates. As Mr Smith puts it, we must stop trying to 'fix' fertility. The real issue lies in the systems that continue to fail young people. A young contributor to the UNFPA report summed it up powerfully: 'Before I bring a child into this world, I have to fight for the right to do so on my terms. This isn't just my fight. It's the fight of billions of young people trapped in systems that deny them the rights and dignity they deserve.' Post Views: 7 Related
Nikkei Asia
17-06-2025
- General
- Nikkei Asia
India, world's most populous country, sees sign of future shrinking
NEW DELHI -- India has dislodged neighboring Asian giant China as the world's most populous country, but its women are having fewer babies than before, a new United Nations report indicates. The South Asian nation's population is estimated to have reached 1.46 billion this year and is expected to increase to 1.7 billion before it begins falling about 40 years from now, says the State of World Population 2025 report published this month by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
