Opinions & Interviews
Belarus draws attention to demographic problems as precondition of sustainable development
Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
MINSK, 2 April (BelTA) – Sustainable development of any country is impossible without resolving the global problems relating to demographic changes. The opinion was expressed by Belarusian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrei Dapkiunas at the 52nd session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development, BelTA has learned. The session began in the UN HQ in New York, USA on 1 April.
This year’s session is dedicated to reviewing and evaluating the implementation of the action plan of the International Conference on Population and Development as well as its contribution to arranging a review of the 2030 Agenda. In his speech during the general discussion Andrei Dapkiunas informed those present about the main demographic trends in Belarus, including falling birthrate and ageing population. He also mentioned key directions of the national policy and programs designed to resolve these problems. In particular, Andrei Dapkiunas mentioned considerable efforts the country takes to motivate families to give birth to kids, including substantial financial benefits for giving birth to children, maternity benefits, and a three-year maternity leave.
The Belarusian deputy minister of foreign affairs mentioned direct dependence of the effectiveness of national strategies and programs in the area of sustainable development on the up-to-date information about population numbers and parameters. Population censuses represent the main and reliable source of such information. Andrei Dapkiunas mentioned a population census is scheduled to take place in Belarus in October.
Andrei Dapkiunas mentioned that new and emerging technologies play a special role in resolving modern demographic problems. The fact is reflected in the 2030 Agenda. The agenda recognizes cutting-edge technologies as a catalyst for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The 52nd session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development will work through 5 April.
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