The latest edition of the State of World Population report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) sheds light on the persistent inequalities and disparities in sexual and reproductive health and rights around the world. The report emphasizes the importance of rejecting division and embracing collaboration to save lives and ensure progress in these areas.
The report, themed “Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending Inequalities in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights,” acknowledges progress over the past three decades. Key achievements include a nearly 20% drop in the global rate of unintended pregnancies, a doubling in the number of women using modern contraceptives, the adoption of laws against domestic violence in 162 countries, and a 34% reduction in maternal deaths since 2000.
Despite these advancements, the report stresses that progress has not been fast or widespread enough due to persistent inequalities. The women most marginalized have experienced the least improvement, while issues such as gender-based violence, lack of access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, and maternal mortality continue to pose significant challenges.
The report identifies several main messages:
Inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and rights: Factors such as disability and geography contribute to discrimination and limited access to healthcare services and comprehensive sexuality education.
Stagnation or regression in progress: In the past two decades, the global reduction in maternal deaths has plateaued, while many women report being unable to refuse sex with their partner.
Politicization and polarization: Sexual and reproductive health and rights are increasingly being politicized, with some leaders basing their political strategies on sowing division and others making legal systems less equitable.
Community leadership: In areas where inequalities exist, community leaders are working to bridge gaps in services, with some women relying on traditional practitioners for assistance.
Collaboration and funding: The report calls for political consensus to tailor solutions to communities and mobilize funding for universal health and rights. An additional USD 79 billion in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by 2030 could prevent 400 million unplanned pregnancies, save one million lives, and bring USD 660 billion in economic benefits.
By training more midwives, maternal and neonatal deaths could be reduced by around 40%, and over a quarter of stillbirths could be prevented.
The UNFPA’s annual State of World Population report offers insights into population and demographic trends, highlighting the unique challenges faced by specific regions, countries, and population groups. The 2024 report was launched on April 16.
