World Needs United Nations Population Fund More Today Than Ever, Secretary-General Says in Fiftieth Anniversary Message

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message for the fiftieth anniversary of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA):

I congratulate the United Nations Population Fund on its fiftieth anniversary.

Your work has saved lives and improved the well-being of people around the world.  Your efforts have been particularly instrumental in enabling women and couples to access the sexual and reproductive health care they need; in preventing gender-based violence; in tackling female genital mutilation and early marriage; and in empowering young people.

UNFPA has also been a leader in advancing the landmark Cairo Programme of Action on Population and Development and in mobilizing action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.  Today, the world needs UNFPA more than ever.  You can count on my support as your vital work continues.

I wish you the best as you mark this milestone.