Every year, July 11th is observed as World Population Day. It’s a noteworthy day to raise people’s awareness about the impact of a growing population and the growing problems that come with it.
UNDP, the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme, established World Population Day in 1989. The motivation behind this holiday was the rise in public interest in the commemoration of “Five Billion Day” on July 11, 1987. In December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly decided to formally declare this day as “World Population Day” through resolution 45/216.
World Population Day was introduced to raise awareness of the growing problems brought on by an increasing global population. Overpopulation is a significant issue given the unsustainable rate of natural resource depletion in the world. The impact of population growth on the environment must be understood. Maternal health, gender equality, and family planning are now more critical than ever as a result of the growing population, which also highlights the health issues that women face during pregnancy and childbirth.
Building a World of Equality: World Population Day 2023 Calls for Gender Equality
The wants and desires of girls and women matter just like those of boys and men.
Even though females make up around 47.9% of the world’s population, they are frequently disregarded in demographic discussions and population policies often violate their rights. The end result is a world in which the other half of the global population is marginalized and excluded, which will prevent everyone from enjoying a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future.
Gender inequality is the main cause of this issue. This injustice prevents girls from going to school, and women from entering the workforce and holding leadership positions. It also interferes with their capability to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. In addition, it increases their susceptibility to harmful behaviors, violence, and avoidable maternal deaths – a woman dies during childbirth or pregnancy every two minutes.
According to the UNFPA 2023 State of the World Population Report, girls and women thrive when societies give them the freedom to exercise autonomy over their bodies and lives. The result is a better and more welcoming world that is prepared to face whatever demographic shifts and challenges the future may bring. Governments must strengthen the rights of girls and women to ensure a population that’s more diverse and resilient around the world.
How To Celebrate World Population Day?
(1) Become Knowledgeable
With a tonne of information available about population-related issues, you can use World Population Day to do some research. The United Nations Populations Fund, the principal UN organization in charge of addressing population issues, is a fantastic place to start.
(2) Share the Information with Your Networks
Ask people in your network to think deeply about the growing population issues and what they can do to help on World Population Day. By using eco-friendly jute bags with printed messages about the world’s population, for instance, organizations can raise awareness among their target audience while promoting themselves.
(3) Donate to Organizations That Address Population Issues
There are a plethora of incredible NGOs and non-profits out there that work tirelessly to address population issues. Besides helping people escape poverty and assisting refugees who have fled their homes owing to violations of human rights or environmental problems, they also educate women about family planning and contraception. So, if you can, try finding ways to support these brave organizations with your time and/or money.
Final Words:
July 11th serves as a reminder for us to reflect upon the challenges and opportunities brought on by the ever-growing population and to work towards making the world a better place for everyone. Let’s work together to create a society where everyone can prosper, regardless of their upbringing or situation, on this World Population Day.
