According to a recent report released by UNFPA, contraceptives should be available for everybody, even the poor to smooth the progress of family planning, says a report in Parent Herald.
"By choice, not by chance: family planning, human rights, and development," was the title of the report and stated: "All human beings-regardless of age, sex, race or income-are equal in dignity and rights. Yet 222 million women in developing countries are unable to exercise the human right to voluntary family planning."
UNFPA insists on taking a stand as it is the right of every person to decide when to have a child. It also advises developing and developed countries highlight unplanned pregnancies as a serious concern and work towards improving the cause.
"Family planning has a positive multiplier effect on development," UNFPA executive director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin said in a report in Parent Herald. "Not only does the ability for a couple to choose when and how many children to have help lift nations out of poverty, but it is also one of the most effective means of empowering women. Women who use contraception are generally healthier, better educated, more empowered in their households and communities and more economically productive. Women's increased labour-force participation boosts nations' economies."
"Family planning is not a privilege, but a right. Yet, too many women-and men-are denied this human right," Dr. Osotimehin said. "The pledge we made in July in London to increase access to family planning will improve the lives of millions and will each year help avert 200,000 maternal deaths. As we approach the target date for achieving the Millennium Development Goals, I call on all leaders to build on this momentum, close the funding gap, and make voluntary family planning a development priority."
The press release by UNFPA also addressed the economy growth related to efficient family planning. The press release further said it can save nearly $11 billion annually just by additional investment in family planning.
