UNFPA: Population Issues Are Not Just about Numbers

 In a compelling new episode of the "Voices of Impact" podcast, launched by the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Cairo, Germaine Haddad, Acting UNFPA Representative in Egypt, joins Mohamed El Koossy, Deputy Director of UNIC.

The episode explores the pivotal role of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in enhancing family wellbeing and advancing gender equality in Egypt.

The conversation begins with Haddad addressing common misconceptions about population issues. “Population issues are not just about numbers,” she clarifies. “Our focus is on the quality of life, which includes health, education, and opportunities for all individuals.” 

Haddad emphasizes that UNFPA is dedicated to improving these aspects rather than merely managing demographic growth.

She also elaborates on UNFPA’s multifaceted approach to supporting families, including reproductive health, education, and creating enabling environments for informed decision-making. 

“We work to ensure that information on health and family planning reaches those who need it most, free from social pressures and harmful traditions,” she explains.

A significant part of the discussion highlights UNFPA’s commitment to combating harmful social norms, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation. Haddad underscores the organization’s efforts to protect women and girls from violence and injustice, ensuring that they can make informed and free choices about their lives.

The podcast also covers UNFPA’s innovative approaches, such as interactive theatre programs involving youth. These programs, which feature young people creating and performing plays on reproductive health and social issues, serve as a unique way to engage communities and spark dialogue.

Haddad also discusses UNFPA’s collaboration with religious and community leaders to promote accurate reproductive health information.

A key focus of the episode is the range of support services provided by UNFPA, including Safe Women’s Clinics across Egyptian universities. These clinics offer free, confidential support for survivors of violence, including medical, psychological, and legal assistance.

Haddad also details two significant UNFPA programs: the Noura Program and the Mawada Program. The Noura Program supports vulnerable adolescent girls at risk of child marriage or school dropout by providing health education, skills development, and educational support. The Mawada Program offers pre-marital counseling to couples, covering topics like communication and reproductive health to ensure healthier marital relationships.

In response to questions about violence against women, Haddad highlights the laws and services available to protect and support survivors. She notes that Safe Women’s Clinics, which are present at universities across Egypt, offer a complete range of free services, including medical, psychological, and legal support.

The discussion also touches on the role of Population Awareness Clubs, which offer platforms for youth to engage in reproductive health discussions and perform interactive plays. Haddad emphasizes the importance of involving young people in community-led initiatives and providing them with the tools to advocate for change.

Haddad reflects on the impact of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and its ongoing influence on UNFPA’s work. 

She stresses that the organization’s focus on improving quality of life and addressing gender-based violence continues to be a central part of its mission.