Rapidly falling death rates in less developed countries following World War II – as communications and transportation, food availability, and public health programs improved – generated explosive population increases and recognition that fertility must be curbed to enable poor countries to achieve their health, economic, and development goals. Nevertheless, because of intense religious and political opposition to birth control, the mobilization of sufficient political will, recruitment of program leadership and staff, commitment of adequate program funding, and development of an effective fertility control program was a difficult task occupying the 1960s and 1970s. The story of how obstacles were overcome and the unified Office of Population created within USAID, a coherent strategy for USAID”s population program formulated, the development of adequate funding for the program, the development of improved fertility control technologies, the purchase and distribution of unprecedented quantities of contraceptive supplies, the development of a uniquely effective population/family planning assistance program by USAID, and the definitive measurement of program results, will be presented. The role of many likewise dedicated family planning leaders and organizations will be recognized, and USAID’s actions in creating and supporting an extensive network of cooperating and supporting organizations documented. Altogether, the story is told of how a band of true believers at USAID combined their talents and resources and strove mightily during many years to fuel the work of hundreds of organizations and country programs in substantially curbing excess fertility and improving the health of many millions while bending world population growth toward a sustainable level.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.