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Cairo Programme of Action

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The Cairo Programme of Action is a comprehensive framework adopted during the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo, Egypt, focusing on population and development issues. It emphasizes the importance of reproductive rights and the need for individuals to have control over their reproductive health and decisions, thereby promoting bodily autonomy as a fundamental human right.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Cairo Programme of Action set specific goals for improving reproductive health services globally, aiming to provide universal access to reproductive health care by 2015.
  2. It recognized the need for gender equality and empowerment of women as crucial components for achieving sustainable development.
  3. The programme emphasized the importance of education and information dissemination regarding family planning and reproductive health.
  4. It encouraged nations to integrate reproductive health into national health policies and programs, ensuring that services are accessible to all segments of society.
  5. The Cairo Programme of Action has influenced subsequent international agreements and policies related to reproductive rights and gender equality.

Review Questions

  • How does the Cairo Programme of Action address the concept of reproductive rights?
    • The Cairo Programme of Action specifically highlights the importance of reproductive rights as a fundamental aspect of individual autonomy and human dignity. It calls for universal access to reproductive health care services, ensuring that individuals can make informed choices about their reproductive lives without coercion. By emphasizing these rights, the programme aims to empower women and promote gender equality within societies.
  • In what ways does the Cairo Programme of Action promote bodily autonomy for individuals?
    • The Cairo Programme of Action promotes bodily autonomy by advocating for individuals' rights to make their own decisions regarding their reproductive health. It underscores that everyone should have access to necessary information and services that allow them to control their bodies without external pressure or interference. This focus on personal choice is crucial for advancing gender equality and ensuring that individuals can live with dignity.
  • Evaluate the impact of the Cairo Programme of Action on global reproductive health policies since its adoption in 1994.
    • Since its adoption in 1994, the Cairo Programme of Action has had a significant impact on global reproductive health policies by shaping national frameworks and encouraging countries to prioritize reproductive rights. Many nations have integrated its principles into their public health strategies, resulting in increased access to family planning services and improved maternal health outcomes. Additionally, its influence has sparked ongoing discussions about gender equality and women's empowerment, helping to establish reproductive rights as central components in international development agendas.