By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr Edward Kallon says Human rights serve as the cornerstone of a just and equitable society.
In his remarks at State of World Population Report and World Population Day, Mr Kallon said it was imperative to protect and uphold these fundamental rights, creating an environment that allows each person to flourish.
“They empower individuals with the freedom of expression, the right to life, liberty, and security. They ensure equal opportunities, regardless of one’s gender, race, religion, or socio-economic background.
“Choice is another key element that underpins a world of infinite possibilities. When individuals have the freedom to make decisions about their bodies, their futures, and their well-being, society as a whole benefits,” Mr Kallon said.
“Access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning, is essential in this context. It empowers individuals to decide if, when, and how many children to have, enabling women to pursue education, career opportunities, and participate fully in the social and economic fabric of their communities.
“By acknowledging and supporting the rights and choices of individuals, we unlock the potential within our global population. When empowered with these freedoms, people can contribute to the advancement of society, innovation, and economic growth.
“It is a virtuous circle where the well-being and prosperity of individuals foster the well-being and prosperity of all.”
Mr Kallon said the challenges that come with a world state of population where eight billion lives intersect required sustainable and inclusive policies that prioritize the well-being of both people and the environment.
“Education, particularly for girls and women, is key to addressing these challenges. Educated individuals are more likely to make informed choices and contribute to sustainable development.
“Investing in QUALITY education, particularly in disadvantaged communities, can help break the cycle of poverty, decrease birth rates, and empower individuals to become responsible global citizens,” he said.
“The world state of population in 2023 will see eight billion lives filled with boundless potential and infinite possibilities. It is our collective responsibility to recognize the rights and choices of each person, fostering an environment where individuals can lead fulfilling and empowered lives.
“By doing so, we can build a world where we harness the power of our diversity and shared humanity to address global challenges and create a prosperous future for all.”
He encouraged people to embrace the transformative power of rights and choices to ignite the spark of greatness within every individual and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
“Let us remember that we are bound together by our shared humanity, our shared responsibility to the planet and to each other.
“Together, we can build a world that is not only sustainable but also just, equitable, and inclusive – a world that we can be proud to pass on to future generations,” he said.
2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) providing an opportunity for the United Nations to put the spotlight on human rights across the globe.
In Zimbabwe, the 75th anniversary of the UDHR provides an opportunity for the United Nations and stakeholders in Government, civil society, and business sector to rekindle the hope of human rights for every person.
On 14 June 2023 the UN in Zimbabwe and partners launched the Human Rights 75 Initiative and the monthly thematic spotlight on women’s rights.
In light of this anniversary, the UN family will undertake a number of activities this year to recognise this important milestone leading up to the SDG Summit in September and a High-Level Event in December 2023.
He said he was proud that the United Nations in Zimbabwe has been undertaking a number of programmes and initiatives on Gender Equality with support of various funding partners. These include:
Spotlight Initiative to Eliminate Violence Against Women and Girls – a joint programme implemented by UN agencies – UNFPA, UNDP, UNICEF, ILO, UNESCO, UN Women – and funded by the European Union Health Resilience Fund (HRF) 2022-2026 – joint programme implemented by UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO. This is funded by the Governments of Britain,
Ireland, and the European Union.
Mr Kallon also expressed gratitude to the Government of Zimbabwe for the leadership on the collective advancement of the rights of women and girls in Zimbabwe.
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