State of world population 2019, UNFINISHED BUSINESS the pursuit of rights and choices for all report was launched today at UN house by  Ms. Azusa Kubota, RR, UNDP; Dr. Pandup Tshering, Director General, Ministry of Health and Mr. Gerald Daly, RC.  The launch was also attended by directors from National Statistics Bureau, Department of Public Health, heads of UN agencies (WHO, WFP, FAO, UNICEF),  NGOs (RENEW, LHAKSAM) and  six media houses.  In addition, the launch event was covered by the Bhutan Broadcasting services.

"The principles of SDGs/ICPD agenda closely align with that of GNH, our development paradigm that strives to balance the social, economic, environmental and cultural aspects with growth. The National Key Result Areas of the 12th FYP and associated indicators have been closely aligned with the SDGs and associated indicators. Lastly, The Ministry of Health would like to reaffirm its commitment to the principles of ICPD, which closely aligns with our development paradigm of GNH without which it will not be able to achieve agenda 2030. We look forward to working with UNFPA here to ensure that these priorities find reflection in a Single unified SDG and ICPD agenda" . Dr. Pandup Tshering, Director General, Ministry of Health.

“A lot is being done to empower women and narrow down the gender inequality gap. However, the question that we must all ask is, are we doing enough, both at our own individual level and at the executive levels within our ministries and organizations and parliament? What more can we all do to achieve this common and important goal to achieve gender equality; not just in papers and in statistics, but in the practical day-to-day life we live? “  Mr. Gerald Daly, UN RC 

Following the launch, sensitization on UNFPA50 and ICPD25 from representatives from media houses and community volunteers from NGOs was conducted.