Implementing the Consensus: Statement by Dr. Nafis Sadik, executive director of the united nations population fund at the african development forum

Abstract

Statement by Dr. Nafis Sadik, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund At the African Development Forum. Dr. Sadik, on his remarks highlighted that The international consensus on population and development identifies HIV prevention as part of reproductive health and rights for both men and women; the consensus encourages special attention to the needs of women and young people; and it acknowledges male responsibility, and the need for men to become full partners in prevention. Successful prevention programmes recognize women is multiple vulnerability; women need protection against HIV and they need the power to protect themselves. Gender bias is the friend of HIV infection. We must teach young men and boys from earliest childhood that women are their equals and worthy of respect. UNFPA has been a leader in generating international resources for these aims. We were instrumental in creating the consensus on population and reproductive health.