Message of Thoraya Ahmed Obaid Executive Director of UNFPA
On the occasion of World Population Day 11 July 2003

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Today, on World Population Day, let us focus on the rights and needs of
young people. There are more young people today than ever before and
they deserve recognition and support. Half of the 6.3 billion people
sharing our planet are under the age of 25. Over one billion are between
the ages of 10 and 19-the largest youth generation in human history.

Working together, we must support adolescents to achieve their dreams
for a better life. If they are prepared with knowledge, choices and
opportunities, they can live healthy and productive lives and contribute
to a more stable world. If, on the other hand, their needs and concerns
are ignored or given low priority, the disservice done is to us all.

At the most basic level, every young person has the right to education
and health. Yet, far too many young people are deprived of schooling and
adequate health care, and the consequences are devastating. Each day,
over 70,000 teenage girls are married, many against their will, and
nearly 40,000 give birth. For these young women, this means an
incomplete education, limited opportunities and serious health risks.
Assisting girls to complete secondary schooling and delay marriage and
childbirth can help break the cycle of poor health, illiteracy and
poverty. Stronger efforts are also needed to confront sexual violence,
exploitation and abuse.

Another great risk and challenge is HIV/AIDS. Today, half of all new HIV
infections occur among young people. Each day, 6,000 young women and men
are newly infected. These facts alone demonstrate the need for greater
education, information and services to help young people protect their
health. In countries where national programmes target and involve youth,
infection rates are declining. By educating, empowering and mobilizing
young people, we can turn the AIDS epidemic around.

Young people have a right to reproductive health information and
services. Studies repeatedly show that education about sexuality and
reproduction does not increase irresponsible behaviour. On the contrary,
it helps young people to make responsible, healthy decisions.

Today, on World Population Day, I invite leaders to listen to young
people's concerns and hopes and put in place laws, policies and
programmes that support their well-being and participation and protect
their human rights.