HQ/2011/15
12 September 2011

Countdown to a World of Seven Billion People

UNITED NATIONS, New York, 12 September 2011—Earth’s population will reach seven billion on 31 October, a milestone that offers unprecedented challenges and opportunities to all of humanity, according to UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund.

Working with a wide group of governments, organizations, corporations and individuals, UNFPA is taking the lead in the global observations of the occasion. That includes the launching of a global initiative, 7 Billion Actions, under the theme of 7 Billion People – Counting on Each Other. Based on online and off line activities, the campaign highlights individual stories behind the 7 billion figure—aiming to inspire action for social good.

Select events leading up to 31 October, the World at 7 billion, will include:

13 September – Washington, DC: A special event, 7 Billion People: Counting on Each Other - Unleashing the Power of Women and Girls sponsored by National Geographic, UNFPA and numerous U.S. government agencies, advocates and celebrities. This 400+ person event will focus on women and girls as critical engines of change in the new reality of 7 billion people. Proceedings will take place at National Geographic Society Headquarters Auditorium, 1145 17th St. NW from 3-5 p.m. (ET) with a reception to follow.

14 September – New York: A panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities of a world of 7 billion people, featuring perspectives from different stakeholders. Moderated by international television host Riz Khan, the panel will include United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin and representatives of the UN Member States, the private sector and civil society. The event will be held from 12:00-1:15 p.m. (ET) at Room 4 of the North Lawn Building at United Nations Headquarters.

24 October: Start of the Countdown to 7 Billion events, including a series of individual events organized by UNFPA's partner organizations to mark the countdown to 7 Billion Day

26 October: Worldwide launch of The State of World Population 2011 report, entitled “People and Possibilities in a World of 7 Billion.”

31 October: Events and a press conference at the United Nation, New York, marking the arrival of the 7 billionth baby, to be attended by the United Nations Secretary-General and the Executive Director of UNFPA as well as global leaders and celebrities. The event will also feature young change makers and worldwide media coverage.

Other events will also be held worldwide to mark the 7 billion milestone. Observances will range from exhibitions and events on the global population, to concerts, photos exhibits and awareness campaigns in public spaces, including original performances by artists and musicians. More information will follow.

For more information, please contact:
Abubakar Dungus: Tel: +1 212 297 5031; dungus@unfpa.org
Omar Gharzeddine: Tel: +1 212 297 5028; gharzeddine@unfpa.org

or visit:
http://7billionactions.org/