Future‐Proofing the ICPD PoA: Reproductive Rights in a Low‐Fertility World

2025/05/05 by Elizabeth Wilkins, Michael Herrmann, Victoria Boydell +2 · 1 voice
Medicine · Social Sciences · #Demographic Trends and Gender Preferences #Family Dynamics and Relationships #Global Maternal and Child Health

paper · pdf · doi:10.1111/sifp.70009

openalex publication_date 2025/05/05 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/19

Abstract

This commentary discusses the issue of low and declining fertility and the enduring relevance of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action (PoA) in this new demographic context. We explore low-fertility trends, patterns, and determinants; fertility in the context of the ICPD PoA; and the recent pushback against sexual and reproductive health, rights, and gender equality. We conclude with various actions that can be taken to future-proof the ICPD PoA in low-fertility contexts looking forward to the next 30 years.

Citations

• Gender Equity in Theories of Fertility Transition
• Changing the perspective on low birth rates: why simplistic solutions won’t work
• The Gender Revolution: A Framework for Understanding Changing Family and Demographic Behavior
• Fertility in Advanced Societies: A Review of Research

Discussions

• Any discussion around addressing low birth rates needs to keep in mind the core principles from the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). We cannot go backwards on indivi [bsky, 7 points, 0 comments]

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