World Population Day is commemorated annually on July 11th to raise awareness and educate individuals about the challenges and consequences associated with global population growth. It serves as a reminder to continuously work towards addressing these issues and improving the lives of everyone on the planet. The observance of World Population Day aims to promote understanding and encourage collective efforts in tackling the impacts of population growth.
World Population Day 2023 Theme
According to United Nations, the theme for this year’s World Population Day is – Unleashing the Power of gender equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock our world’s infinite possibilities.
World Population Day 2023 Significance
World Population Day focuses on bringing attention to critical issues concerning the global population. It aims to raise awareness about various challenges such as gender inequality, economic crises, and poverty. This day serves as a reminder to actively strive for the betterment of people’s lives and drive positive transformations. The United Nations celebrates World Population Day with a vision of creating a future where everyone has equal opportunities and limitless potential. Moreover, it works towards building a sustainable world in line with the goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
World Population Day 2023 History
The United Nations Development Programme’s Governing Council established World Population Day in 1989, inspired by the Day of Five Billion observed on July 11, 1987. In 1990, the United Nations General Assembly, through Resolution 45/216, decided to continue celebrating World Population Day to raise awareness about population issues and their interconnection with the environment and development.
The first World Population Day was observed on July 11, 1990, in more than 90 countries. Since then, numerous organizations, institutions, and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) country offices, in partnership with governments and civil society, have been marking this day to bring attention to population-related concerns.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- United Nations Population Fund Headquarters: New York, New York, United States;
- United Nations Population Fund Founded: 1969;
- United Nations Population Fund Head: Natalia Kanem.