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UNFPA Latin America and the Caribbean fights for the rights of young people, including the right to access reliable information and services related to sexuality and reproductive health. Empowered with knowledge and skills to protect themselves and make informed decisions, young people can develop their full potential and contribute to processes of economic and social transformation.
People under 25 make up 43% of the world's population. In Latin America and the Caribbean, there is an estimated population of 140 million young people, between 15 and 29 years old. Several countries are going through a period of influx of adolescents and young people, called the period of the “demographic bonus”; a situation that calls upon decision makers and planners to think of interventions that can enhance the capacities of young people with programs to improve access to decent employment, education and health services, particularly sexual and reproductive health.
In addition, it seeks to promote, through technical and political advocacy, investment in opportunities that allow adolescents and young people to develop the knowledge, skills and resilience necessary for a healthy, productive and full life.
Investing in young people, especially adolescent women, is one of the smartest investments a country can make. As parents, teachers and leaders of the next generation, young people can help break the cycle of poverty, strengthening the social fabric and creating a sustainable future.
UNFPA supports the creation of healthy families
Empowering healthcare providers to offer quality family planning services
Providing contraceptives in emergency situations
Ensuring youth-friendly reproductive health care
Offering guidance and options to women who want to avoid or delay pregnancy
Educating men about the benefits of birth spacing
UNFPA works to improve maternal health
Training health providers
Providing aseptic delivery kits in emergency situations
Strengthening emergency obstetric care
Ensuring reliable supplies of essential drugs and equipment
Supporting birth spacing
And that every young person reaches their full development
UNFPA advocates for the well-being of youth
Promoting the human rights of adolescents
Preventing HIV infection
Involving youth in decisions that affect them
Supporting comprehensive sex education according to age
Creating safe spaces for adolescent girls
Promoting zero tolerance for violence against girls and women
Promoting youth leadership