Islamabad: On World Population Day, stakeholders highlighted the crucial need for inclusive data to address Pakistan’s rapid population growth and align resources with developmental goals.
According to United Nations Population Fund, the event emphasized the theme “Embracing the power of inclusive data towards a resilient and equitable future for all,” reflecting the pressing challenges in Pakistan. The country faces significant hurdles due to a lack of timely, reliable, and accessible data, which impacts decision-making and policy development, particularly in areas of reproductive health and gender equality.
Dr. Luay Shabaneh, UNFPA Country Representative, stressed the importance of robust data systems, which are foundational for effective planning and ensuring no one is left behind. He noted the critical role of data in understanding demographic dynamics and addressing the needs of a predominantly youthful population. The UNFPA is committed to enhancing data collection and analysis to aid Pakistan in harnessing its population as a key resource for development.