ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a rights-based population agenda, aligning it with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Family Planning 2030 targets. His statement came on the occasion of World Population Day, observed globally on July 11.
He emphasized that equitable access to healthcare and informed family planning is essential for sustainable growth. The prime minister stressed that individuals must have the freedom to make life choices with dignity, autonomy, and access to proper resources.
Highlighting this year’s theme—“Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world”—PM Shehbaz noted its relevance to Pakistan. With 242 million people, nearly 65% of whom are under the age of 30, the country stands at a pivotal moment in its demographic history.
He said that if empowered properly, this large youth population could drive innovation, boost productivity, and shape a brighter future. However, he also warned that mismanagement could place overwhelming pressure on national resources, public services, and governance systems.
To address these challenges, the prime minister called for collective action. He urged all stakeholders—including federal and provincial governments, civil society, development partners, the private sector, and community leaders—to join hands in building a more prosperous and inclusive Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz concluded by expressing hope that with focused planning and shared responsibility, Pakistan can turn its population trends into a powerful engine for sustainable development.