ICPD30: Celebrating Milestones, Inspiring Action at United Nations General Assembly 78 

As a member of the ICPD25 International Steering Committee, I was honoured to join UNFPA Leaders at the Ministerial Briefing on #ICPD25 at the UN Headquarters, ahead of the thirtieth anniversary of the ICPD in 2024 ICPD30, to build momentum for the review of implementation on the margins of the 78th High-Level Week of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. 

Co-hosted by the Governments of Bulgaria and Sweden, and with remarks delivered by Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA Executive Director, H.E. Mariya Gabriel the Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johan Forssell, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of Sweden, and Ms. Diene Keita, UNFPA Deputy Executive Director-Programme, we discussed what is at stake, to explore ways to participate in the review process and mobilise support for the ICPD Agenda, as we must remain ever vigilant against backtracking, and insistent on progress.  

Shortly after, the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit on ICPD25 Follow-up concluded its work by launching a report championing a universal, unifying call for sexual and reproductive justice. ‘Sexual and Reproductive Justice Cannot Wait: All Rights, All People, Acting Now’ published on Friday, is the commission’s final report, urging diverse movements for justice, including those advocating for youth, gender equality and climate, to join forces in driving the changes needed around the world. 

Outlining the path forward, to meet the 12 core Nairobi commitments and achieve three transformative zeros: zero unmet need for contraception, zero preventable maternal deaths, and zero gender-based violence and harmful practices, we must prioritise the power and safety of the 1.8 billion youth 1point8billion Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health, and ensure sustainable investment in Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Services.

The Wellbeing Foundation Africa believes that when adolescents successfully transition into adulthood healthily, it broadens the range of opportunities for their future, and their communities. Together, we must ensure they realise their rights and choices.

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