58th Commission on Population and Development - National Statement

Ministry Statements & Speeches:

Statement delivered by Ms. Asher Herrmann, Adviser

Chair,

New Zealand remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles set forth in the International Conference on Population and Development and the Programme of Action. We recognise that ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages is fundamental to sustainable development and the realisation of human rights. 

New Zealand’s efforts to support healthy lives for all can be seen through several programmes. Efforts to improve health outcomes for women and girls include extending free breast cancer screening for women aged 70-74 and introducing a world-leading, self-test for the Human Papillomavirus to our National Cervical Screening Programme to increase uptake.   

Mental health conditions and addiction are significant contributors to a loss of wellbeing. We have committed to tackling these issues with a targeted Mental Health and addiction workforce plan, to better support New Zealanders who experience mental distress or addiction challenges.  

Our International Development Cooperation has several investments across the Pacific, including in prevention and management of non-communicable diseases and their risk factors, maternal and child health, ensuring sexual and reproductive health and rights, health security, and health system strengthening - including infrastructure, laboratory capabilities and workforce development. 

We acknowledge that despite these positive steps, inequalities continue to persist, and certain populations remain vulnerable. New Zealand is committed to supporting these communities by building resilience and ensuring equitable access to health services for all New Zealanders. 

We would also like to emphasize the importance of robust data collection and analysis to inform effective interventions. Investing in statistical capacity enables us to plan and monitor people-centred sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind. 

Chair, we thank the Commission for this opportunity to speak.

New Zealand remains dedicated to international collaboration and the multilateral system to achieve the goals outlined in the ICPD Programme of Action. We recognise that global challenges require collective action and shared responsibility. 

Thank you. 

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