World Population Day is an annual event to raise awareness of global population issues. The day is observed on 11 July every year since first observed on 11 July 1990. World Population Day aims to aware general masses of various population issues such as the importance of family planning, gender equality, poverty, maternal health, human rights, etc.
In 2011, there were 7 billion people on earth. The number will increase to 8 billion this year, which will prompt an array of responses. Over the years health advancements have resulted in longer life spans, reduced maternal and child mortality, as well as, on-time vaccination. The ease of living is widespread thanks to technological advancements.
World Population Day Theme 2022
The theme of World Population Day 2022 is “A world of 8 billion: Towards a resilient future for all – Harnessing opportunities and ensuring rights and choices for all”.
A perfect world for 8 billion people would be one in which 8 billion people have access to rights and choices that allow them to live healthier lives. However, there is no such thing as a level playing field, and there never has been.
Why Do We Observe World Population Day?
Celebrating International population day has the following objectives:
• The celebration is aimed at protecting and empowering youths of both genders.
• Educate them on sexuality in detail and delay marriage until they learn their responsibilities.
• Use reasonable and youth-friendly measures to prevent unwanted pregnancies among youth.
• Educate people to overcome gender stereotypes in society.
• Inform the public about pregnancy-related illnesses so that they are aware of the dangers of early childbirth.
• To prevent various infections, teach them about STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).
• Ensure that every girl and every boy has access to equal primary education.
• As part of basic primary health, every couple should have easy access to reproductive health services.
History of World Population Day
Five Billion Day was established in 1987 to commemorate the date when the world’s population surpassed five billion people, which was said to have occurred on July 11, that year (hence the annual date of Population Day). The population has grown dramatically since then! Population issues include family planning, gender equality, environmental impact, and human rights concerns.
The Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme – UNDP established World Population Day in 1989. It was inspired by the public interest in celebrating ‘Five Billion Day’ on July 11, 1987. A resolution 45/216 of the United Nations General Assembly declared this date as ‘World Population Day’ in December 1990.
