The United Nations’ (UN) World Population Day is annually observed on July 11 to reaffirm the human right to plan for a family. It encourages activities, events, and
information to help make this right a reality throughout the world.

World Population Day aims to increase people’s awareness about various population issues such as the importance of family planning, gender equality, poverty, maternal health, and human rights. The day is celebrated worldwide by business groups, community organizations, and individuals in many ways. Activities include seminar discussions, educational information sessions, and essay competitions.

Background
In 1968 world leaders proclaimed that individuals had a basic human right to determine
freely and responsibly the number and timing of their children. About 40 years later
modern contraception remains out of reach for millions of women, men, and young
people. World Population Day was instituted in 1989 as an outgrowth of the Day of Five
Billion, marked on July 11, 1987. The UN authorized the event as a vehicle to build an
awareness of population issues and the impact they have on development and the
environment.

Since then, with the United Nations Population Fund's (UNFPA) encouragement,
governments, non-governmental organizations, institutions, and individuals organize
various educational activities to celebrate the annual event.