Today, on World Population Day, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Iran joins the global community in celebrating the potential of every individual. This year, we come together to emphasise the importance of providing equal opportunities for all and in all aspects, including in the labour workforce.

As Natalia Kanem, our Executive Director stated, we must “unite once more to imagine a world in which every one of us has the equal opportunity to thrive. Let us join forces to ensure a reality in which every nation’s real wealth – no matter its size or stage of development – is its people.”

Advancing equality and leaving no one behind particularly women and girls is not only a matter of justice and human rights but also a crosscutting solution to many population concerns. When women and girls are empowered and given equal opportunities to participate in the labour workforce, societies thrive. It leads to economic growth, improved health and well-being, and greater resilience in the face of challenges.

In Iran, we acknowledge the recognizable achievements of women in different fields, from sports to education, and from official to household work. We believe in the importance of respecting and honouring diverse traditions while advocating for progress. UNFPA Iran remains committed to working closely with the Iranian government, and all stakeholders to foster an environment that enables women and men to contribute equally to the workforce, ensuring a more prosperous and sustainable future.

On this World Population Day, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to creating a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, has the same opportunities. Together, we can build inclusive societies that recognize the immense potential of every individual and harness the power of equality to address population challenges and achieve sustainable development.

Happy World Population Day!