Media urged to address rapid population growth

The media has a vital role to play in advancing the population management agenda in Pakistan, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by rapid population growth — a major hurdle to national progress and development. This was the central theme of the National Media Coalition Meeting on Harnessing Media for Positive Social Change, organised by the Population Council with the support of UNFPA. Journalists from leading media outlets across Pakistan participated, emphasising the media's power to shape public discourse, and policy action. In his welcome remarks, Population Council's Senior Director, Dr Ali Mir, stressed the urgency of tackling Pakistan's rapid population growth, which threatens economic stability, resource distribution, and the country's ability to meet its development goals. He highlighted the increasing strain on public services such as healthcare, education, and employment, underscoring the need for collective action. "The media has the power to inform, educate, and influence public perception, ultimately driving policies that promote sustainable population growth. By shedding light on key issues, journalists can mobilize action and help address the challenges posed by an expanding population," he stated. Population Council's Director Communication, Ali Mazhar Choudhary, led a session on effectively mainstreaming the population agenda through media. Coalition members worked on a strategic plan to advance the narrative of sustainable population growth, identifying key focus areas for media coverage. These included the links between rapid population growth and climate change, women's empowerment, female education, the integration of population welfare indicators in the NFC Award, political will, the role of Lady Health Workers (LHWs) in family planning, and incorporating family planning services into social protection networks.

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