World population reaching 7 billion calls for investments in youth, reproductive health.

UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, in the Kyrgyz Republic has joined the global 7 billion Campaign that started on the 11th of July, World Population Day, with a series of activities related to the population milestone.
On 31st of October, 2011, the UNFPA Office in Kyrgyzstan celebrated the birth of the first 7 babies in 5 maternity houses in Bishkek and in Chuyi Oblast . Newborn babies and their mothers will be awarded with pampers, nipples, powders, sleeping bags and other necessary items.
A photo exhibition will also be launched at the National Art Gallery and journalists reporting on different issues related to a world of 7 billion will receive awards on the 8th of November, 2011. On this day, the annual "State of World Population" report will also be presented in Bishkek.
The report highlights the many achievements, setbacks and paradoxes of a world of 7 billion. "A world of 7 billion is both a challenge and an opportunity, and reducing inequities and finding ways to ensure well-being of people alive today - as well as the generations that follow - will require new ways of thinking and unprecedented global cooperation", said UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin.
Globally, people are younger - and older - than ever before. In the Kyrgyz Republic, the 2009 Census showed a significant increase in the number of young people. Today in Kyrgyzstan, young people aged 14 to 28 represent 30.2% of the whole population. In this context, it is more important than ever to create opportunities for young people and invest in their health and education.
"When young people can exercise their right to health, education, and have a decent job, they can contribute to improving their nations and escape poverty", said Alexandr Avanessov, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyzstan, "This includes their right to reproductive health and to determine the number and spacing of their children".
Globally, 215 million women lack access to effective family planning services. Whether or not these women will have access to adequate reproductive health services will determine the rate of global population growth for years to come. In the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republican Medical and Information Centre reports that in 2009 only 30% of women of reproductive age are using a contraceptive method. This has been key in reducing the number of maternal deaths and complications during the pregnancy, but much work needs to be done to improve women's access to quality healthcare services in the country, especially in remote areas.
"In a world of seven billion, we must invest resources to enable women and men to have the means to exercise their human rights. Advancing reproductive health and rights will enhance their well-being and productivity and improve prospects for current and future generations." highlighted Avanessov.