Kathmandu: The 6th Asian Population Conference, a platform to address diverse population issues in Asia, is set to be hosted in Kathmandu from November 27-30. The conference presents Nepal with a significant opportunity to enhance policies and implementation strategies related to sexual and reproductive health.

Key Focus Areas

The conference will address five critical aspects of sexual and reproductive health:

1. Access to Education and Services for Youth:
   Emphasis will be placed on ensuring youth receive comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education. Lack of such education can lead to increased risks of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and mental health issues.
2. Gender Equality and Women’s Health Rights:
   The conference will highlight the need for legal measures, safe abortion services, and empowerment initiatives to secure women’s sexual and reproductive health rights, particularly benefiting rural women.
3. Adolescent Health and Mental Well-Being:
   Discussions will explore the connection between reproductive health challenges and mental health during adolescence, emphasizing the need for policy reforms.
4. Health Security for Migrant Workers:
   Recommendations include providing counseling, health screenings, and educational programs to reduce sexual health risks for Nepalese migrant workers.
5. Reproductive Health During Pandemics:
   Insights will focus on addressing disruptions in reproductive health services during crises like COVID-19.

Opportunities for Nepal

1. Policy Enhancements:
   The conference’s recommendations will support efforts to empower women, improve adolescent sexual health education, and ensure access to reproductive health services for migrant workers. Insights from other countries will aid in refining Nepal’s policies, especially for rural populations.
2. Expanding Rural Health Services:
   Nepal can focus on improving health centers, training medical personnel, and allocating resources to ensure better access to reproductive health services in remote areas.
3. Improved Maternal Health and Safe Abortion Services:
   With limited access to safe abortion services impacting maternal health, the conference will provide direction for legal reforms and service expansions to address this critical issue.
4. Health Security for Migrant Workers:
   The recommendations emphasize pre-departure health check-ups, counseling, and education on safe sexual practices for Nepalese workers going abroad.
5. Adolescent Sexual and Mental Health:
   Programs to provide comprehensive sexual health education and mental health services will empower adolescents, promoting their well-being and confidence.

A Special Focus on Nepal

A dedicated “Nepal Session” will highlight the country’s unique challenges and opportunities in managing population and health issues. By incorporating discussions and recommendations, Nepal can develop innovative policies and programs to address its population challenges, bringing it closer to achieving sustainable development goals.

The 6th Asian Population Conference offers a critical platform for Nepal to enhance its sexual and reproductive health strategies, ensuring significant improvements in its healthcare system and fostering a healthier future for its population.