The decision that couples make on if, when and how many children to have will invariably determine the size of a country’s population. The access and quality of maternal healthcare, socio-economic factors such as gender-equality and the potential of youth to make informed decisions are factors that determine population trends.

Sri Lanka is currently facing a demographic transition, with a rapidly ageing population, and by 2030, 1 in 5 people in Sri Lanka will be above the age of 60.

UNFPA is the lead agency driving data for strengthened policies and decision-making within the UN system in Sri Lanka.

In order to ensure that no one is left behind, UNFPA plays a pivotal role in:

• Ensuring that demographic trends such as population ageing are highlighted at policy level to inform national and subnational decision making in Sri Lanka
• Providing technical support during all stages of a National census and helps ensure that data is widely utilized and disseminated for development
• Working with policymakers, civil society, healthcare providers and educators at all levels to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights