In the last year, the world population surpassed 8 billion. This milestone has sparked a range of emotions, from excitement and hope and pessimism and anxiety. Some have wondered, “What potential can we unlock with 8 billion humans?” Others have asked “Are there “too many” people for the planet?” or, “Are there “too few” babies being born?”

Today, on World Population Day, we’re here to tell you that these conversations are beside the point. What matters are the wants of women and girls. 

Our dream on this World Population Day is that all individuals are equipped to thrive and exercise their basic human right to sexual and reproductive autonomy.

Unfortunately, while women and girls make up half of the global population, their needs are often ignored, their wants diminished, their voices silenced, and their rights violated. Our world today is one in which half the population is excluded and marginalized.

Global gender inequality… 

• Keeps women and girls out of school, the workforce, and leadership positions; 
• Limits their agency and ability to make decisions for their sexual and reproductive health;
• And heightens their vulnerability to violence, harmful practices, and preventable maternal death.

This World Population Day, we’re doubling down on our work to demand a better world for every woman and girl — and millions across the globe are counting on you to join the fight. 

Make a tax-deductible gift today to deliver lifesaving sexual and reproductive health care and empower women and girls to make decisions for their bodies and futures.

Bottom line: A world with 8 billion means it’s even more important that we guarantee that every individual has the ability to make reproductive and sexual health decisions for themselves, free from discrimination, coercion, and violence.

Thank you for being there for women and girls — today and every day.

Sincerely,

Anu Surendran
Chief Executive Officer
USA for UNFPA