Monrovia — Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung officially launched the 2024 State of the World Population Report, emphasizing the importance of utilizing evidence-based research and available data for national policy and development.
On Thursday, July 11, 2024, at the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Ministerial Complex, VP Koung introduced the report during the celebration of World Population Day. The report, titled “Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending Inequalities in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights,” is an annual publication by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). It examines global population trends and highlights the specific challenges faced by various regions, countries, and demographic groups.
In his address, Vice President Koung underscored the necessity of continuous evidence-based research to inform policies that improve citizens’ livelihoods. He highlighted that World Population Day serves to draw attention to population dynamics’ role in development and to promote inclusive policies that support human rights, social justice, and sustainable development.
“The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data Towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All,’ is particularly significant,” VP Koung remarked. He reflected on the progress made since the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), which prioritized the rights of women and girls in development. This progress includes better access to reproductive care, reductions in maternal mortality, and advancements in gender equality.
VP Koung affirmed the Liberian government’s commitment to using evidence-based research to address socio-economic challenges through the ARREST Agenda. He emphasized the government’s dedication to integrating the rights of women, girls, and young people across all sectors, laying a foundation for future development.
“We will also work with the legislature to ensure that the laws and policies we pass reflect our national priorities and are inclusive of all people, particularly the elderly and people with disabilities,” Koung stated.
He announced the formation of the Legislative Committee on Population and Development (LCPD), consisting of 20 lawmakers. With support from the UNFPA, this committee will advance policy discussions on reproductive health, women’s empowerment, gender equality, and issues affecting the elderly, adolescents, and youth.
VP Koung encouraged all Liberians to read and share the 2024 State of the World Population Report, which offers valuable insights into global, regional, and national population dynamics. He stressed the importance of analyzing census data to understand population trends in Liberia and to monitor development progress.
UNFPA Resident Coordinator, Madam Bidisha Pillai, read the World Population Day statement from UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem. She emphasized the need to end inequality and foster inclusion to promote global peace and prosperity. Pillai highlighted that ensuring all people are counted and visible in data systems is crucial for exercising human rights and achieving full potential.
World Population Day 2024 serves as a reminder to address who is being left uncounted and why, and to strengthen data systems to capture the full spectrum of human diversity. This commitment to inclusive data is essential for realizing a future where everyone can thrive.
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