Soroptimist International (SI) is proud to submit its official statement to the 58th session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development (CPD), taking place from 7–11 April 2025. CPD plays a vital role in reviewing global progress on population and development issues. This year’s theme, “Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages,” is a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address gendered health inequalities across the life course—a core concern for SI and our global advocacy.
Key Issues Raised in the Statement
In our submission, SI highlights the compounding impact of gender, age, poverty, disability, and climate change on the health and well-being of women and girls. The statement highlights that:
- Gendered poverty continues to place millions of women and girls at greater health risk, especially older women with limited access to pensions, housing, and care.
- Sexual and reproductive health and rights must be guaranteed at all ages, with comprehensive sexuality education and access to services crucial for empowering women and preventing harmful practices.
- Maternal healthcare and equitable access to medical advancements must be non-negotiable, and education is central to improving outcomes.
- Environmental and climate crises are worsening health outcomes, disproportionately impacting women and girls through exposure to pollution, food insecurity, and increased vulnerability to violence.
The statement calls for governments to honour international commitments, invest in inclusive health systems, and ensure universal access to physical, mental, and reproductive healthcare.
Why This Matters
This statement reflects SI’s continued commitment to ensuring the rights of all women and girls to good health and well-being. By centring gender equity in population and development policies, we can close the health gap and build more just, resilient societies.