Bangkok from November 15 to 17, 2023
Delegates from Asia and the Pacific convened in Bangkok from November 15 to 17, 2023, for the Seventh Asian and Pacific Population Conference, where the importance of population and development in shaping the future of over 60% of the world's population was highlighted. The joint effort by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) brought together over 400 officials, civil society representatives, and youth groups to review key declarations on population and development. A significant contribution came from UNFPA Iran, which facilitated the presence of a delegation of Iranian officials at the conference, providing them with technical support.
ESCAP Deputy Executive Secretary Lin Yang, during the conference's closing, emphasized the shared commitment to addressing population dynamics in the region and the potential for substantial contributions to the International Conference on Population and Development's 30th-anniversary goals.
Delegates recognized the impact of megatrends such as shifting population dynamics, the climate crisis, migration, urbanization, and digital advancement, noting persistent inequality and social injustice. The consensus highlighted the necessity for forward-looking policies that prioritize demographic transitions, individual rights, and choices, emphasizing the importance of building sustainable and thriving societies and economies. Strengthened regional collaboration, including partnerships, increased investments, and disaggregated data, emerged as critical components for achieving shared goals.
UNFPA's Deputy Executive Director (Programme), Diene Keita, concluded the conference, noting the promising energy and spirit displayed during the week and highlighting the significance of collaboration in advancing the quality of life in the region. The facilitation of Iran's delegation by UNFPA not only contributed to a meaningful exchange of experiences and insights at the regional conference but also underscored the organization's commitment to fostering international cooperation for population and development objectives.
