Conclusion
The word "Cairo" has, since the conclusion of the ICPD, become synonymous with a spirit of inclusion, cooperation, and consensus for a new generation of population-related policies based on human rights, equality and equity for women, reproductive health and rights, and partnership with NGOs. These policies also recognize the common, yet differentiated responsibilities of all countries-"devel oped" and "developing"-to ensure the worldıs future sustainability. The Inter national Conference on Population and Development was a watershed event in international policy-making. What the Cairo document recognizes, in its scope and recommendations, is that only through women's empowerment and full participation in the political, social, and economic lives of their nations will development and progress for all be achieved.
We hope that the energy and vision of women that inspired decision-makers in Cairo will inspire us all in our work to ensure that the recommendations contained in the Cairo Programme of Action are made real by governments and international agencies around the world.
Change is possible; in fact, it is inevitable. The world will never be the same after Cairo.
Imagine how much progress we've made...we [have] come to agreement on a very, very progressive document. I think the world is never going to be the same after Cairo.TIMOTHY E. WIRTH, UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE FOR GLOBAL AFFAIRS U.S
Department of State
"180 Nations Adopt Population Plan"
Los Angeles Times, 9/14/94
Women have been uplifted. One more battle has been won. We leave this country with great satisfaction that we were party to this transformation. We feel more empowered now than when we came and this is something good to take home, it is worth sustaining. Thank you, bye for now, and see you in ACTION.DR. FLORENCL MANGUYU
Co-chair, International NGO Steering Committee
Chairperson, NGO Forum '94
Closing Statement to the ICPD, 9/13/94
IWHC INDEX PREVIOUS INDEX FORWARD