Population growth has slowed as a result of broader choice and lower fertility, life expectancy has increased, and infant mortality rates have declined. A higher proportion of girls are entering school. The idea of integrated reproductive health care, and an approach based on gender equity and equality are gaining ground. The emphasis today is increasingly on meeting people's needs and enabling them to exercise their reproductive rights. The five-year review this year showed that the ICPD approach is having some success.
Countries are firmly committed to it, because it is based on solid experience.
Some donor countries have met their commitment. But most have not. This year 185 nations agreed that the ICPD Programme of Action is practical, realistic and necessary. It would help slow population growth, alleviate poverty, ease the strain on the planet's natural resources and contribute to sustainable development. We must make good the promises made five years ago.