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Closing inequality gaps in Latin America and the Caribbean is possible
By Eugenia López Uribe, IPPF ACRO Regional Director
Nowadays, technology allows us to disaggregate population data and gain a more precise understanding of the diversity of people worldwide. This data plays a fundamental role in shaping public policies, laws, and programs that genuinely address the needs and promote the well-being of the population. However, in certain communities, inequality acts as a barrier, hindering a detailed assessment of their composition and needs. Additionally, there are marginalized groups whose needs and gaps, though glaringly evident, remain deprioritized.
The data speaks for itself: in the 21st century, for instance, women are 30% less likely than men to be employed and more likely to experience poverty and age without adequate pensions. In the realm of sexual and reproductive health, approximately 18 million women in Latin America and the Caribbean have an unmet need for modern contraception. Furthermore, 1,500 hospitals specializing in maternal health and family planning are situated in coastal areas prone to natural hazards, necessitating a deeper exploration of the link between climate emergencies and healthcare access. In this challenging context, the agreements signed by our countries regarding Population and Development demand heightened attention and greater responsibility from UN member states.
On a global scale, the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals serve as our roadmap “to end poverty, protect the planet, and enhance the lives and prospects of people everywhere.” Over the past decade, Latin America and the Caribbean have had one of the most progressive documents for monitoring the implementation of this Agenda: the Montevideo Consensus on Population and Development. Despite this clear roadmap, progress in terms of rights and development remains insufficient, revealing a weak and disjointed commitment on the part of regional governments.
To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, urgent action is needed. Countries must prioritize access to sexual and reproductive health, respond effectively to climate emergencies, and eradicate poverty. Central to this effort is placing women—in all their diversity—and other vulnerable populations at the heart of policy decisions. In pursuit of this goal, an IPPF ACRO delegation actively participated in the 5th Meeting of the Regional Conference on Population and Development of Latin America and the Caribbean (CRPD), organized by ECLAC from June 30 to July 4.
IPPF ACRO’s strong delegation arrived in Cartagena, Colombia comprising Member Associations and Collaborating Partners from across the region. As part of the official delegations from ECLAC member countries, IPPF ACRO members passionately advocated for the implementation of priority issues related to women and vulnerable populations.
The recent conference happened during an exceptionally challenging period—a time when focused efforts and increased funding are urgently needed to address the triple global crisis and the widening inequalities. However, the results presented in the regional report on the implementation of the Consensus fail to provide convincing evidence of a genuine commitment to accelerating the population and development agenda.
Within our region, we grapple with social, fiscal, and economic challenges that hinder sustainable development. Poverty and inequality levels have worsened, public budgets remain strained due to the pandemic’s impact, and economic growth continues to fall short of its potential. Shockingly, nearly 18% of the population now lives on less than $3.1 a day—a poverty threshold that surpasses that of a decade ago. Moreover, sovereign debt has surged to over 70% of GDP. So, where is the commitment to bridging these gaps?
Beyond this troubling context, we cannot ignore the disproportionate impact on women—in all their diversity—and other vulnerable populations. Women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, sex workers, people living with HIV, youth, and displaced communities bear the brunt of slow progress in implementing the Montevideo Consensus. When it comes to addressing the real needs of our region, governments seem hesitant to acknowledge their responsibility in providing the necessary resources to fulfill the commitments made in Montevideo back in 2013. Additionally, they must recognize that we are currently facing a climate emergency—an issue that cannot be sidelined in the agreements they sign.
As we observe World Population Day, the stark reality confronts us: millions of people live in an unequal, unjust, and urgent world. Yet, if governments persistently choose not to allocate resources for meaningful change, what purpose do their commitments serve?
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region
Americas & the Caribbean
Subject
Advocacy

Beyond this troubling context, we cannot ignore the disproportionate impact on women—in all their diversity—and other vulnerable populations. Women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, sex workers, people living with HIV, youth, and displaced communities bear the brunt of slow progress in implementing the Montevideo Consensus.
