World Population Day 2023: Know the history, theme and significance

World Population Day serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the diverse challenges faced by humanity due to population growth.

World Population Day 2023: Date, history, significance

World Population Day 2023: Established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989, World Population Day arose from the recognition of the importance of population-related issues. (Source: Unsplash)

Every year on July 11, World Population Day is observed around the globe to shed light on the challenges and opportunities presented by the world’s growing population. This significant day serves as a reminder to address population-related issues and strive towards a sustainable future for all. Since its inception, World Population Day has gained momentum as a platform for raising awareness and initiating dialogue on global population concerns.

History

Established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989, World Population Day arose from the recognition of the importance of population-related issues. The UNDP designated this day as an annual event to commemorate the world’s population reaching 5 billion people on July 11, 1987. The milestone highlighted the urgent need to address the consequences and implications of population growth, prompting the international community to take action.

Significance

World Population Day serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the diverse challenges faced by humanity due to population growth. It aims to foster global awareness of issues such as overpopulation, reproductive health and rights, gender equality, poverty and sustainable development. By bringing attention to these interconnected problems, the day encourages governments, organisations and individuals to develop strategies and implement initiatives that support the well-being of present and future generations.

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2023 Theme: Unleashing the power of gender equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock our world’s infinite possibilities

According to UN, women and girls are often ignored in discussions on demographics, with their rights violated in population policies. This injustice limits their agency and ability to make decisions about their health, sexual and reproductive lives, and heightens their vulnerability to violence, harmful practices and preventable maternal death. Advancing gender equality is fundamental to addressing demographic and other challenges that threaten our future, including climate change and conflict.

This #WorldPopulationDay, instead of talking about the number of people…

…let’s talk about the number of choices women and girls have.

Drop a 💯 if you agree!

Help change the conversation with @UNFPA: https://t.co/tTLpElCinl #GlobalGoals pic.twitter.com/kFVyatI3au

— UNFPA (@UNFPA) July 8, 2023