UNFPA Sri Lanka joined the Department of Demography celebration in marking World Population Day. UNFPA Sri Lanka Assistant Representative (a.i) Sharika Cooray spoke on the need to advance gender equality to empower women and girls.

As the global population exceeded 8 billion in 2022, notable progress has been made in public health, education, poverty reduction, and technological advancements. However, these improvements have not been evenly distributed, resulting in disparities affecting economic development, employment, income distribution, poverty alleviation, and social protection. These trends will also influence universal access to vital resources such as healthcare, education, housing, water, food, and fuel. As countries show signs of progress in critical areas, the widening inequalities become more glaring. Women, girls, people with disabilities are among the major demographics we are leaving behind.

On this World Population Day, world is reminded that advancing gender equality is a fundamental solution to numerous population-related challenges. By unleashing the full potential of women and girls and nurturing their aspirations for their lives, families, and careers, we harness the power of half the population, fostering leadership, innovation, and creativity for the betterment of society.

Let us stand united in envisioning a world where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive, and where women, girls, and youth have access to information and opportunities that propel their success. By empowering women and advancing gender equality, we embark on a transformative journey towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.