30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD30)

It has been 30 years since the International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo established the contemporary rights-based approach to sexual and reproductive health that guides us today. Ten years later, in 2004, the first strategy on reproductive health, the Reproductive health strategy to accelerate progress towards the attainment of international development goals and targets, was adopted at the 57th World Health Assembly.  

Providing the foundation for our work in HRP, comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services encompass a wide range of health needs beyond just reproduction. These services cover access to contraception, fertility and infertility care, maternal and perinatal health, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), protection from sexual and gender-based violence, and education on safe and healthy relationships. By addressing these various aspects of health, primary health care systems demonstrate a commitment to holistic care that considers the physical, mental and social well-being of individuals. 

Ensuring access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services upholds the dignity, rights and well-being of people worldwide. 

Throughout this landmark year, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Special Programme on Human Reproduction (HRP) will be celebrating hard-won gains based on evidence that brought a focus to the interests and needs of individuals and health systems. We will continue to expand global understanding of comprehensive reproductive health and rights and sexual health.  

This is the moment to take a forward-looking assessment of where we are, and where we need to go in order to achieve global goals and commitments. 

Watch this space for updated activities.