Reaching 7 billion in population is a feat worth
noting. However, the true nature
of this marking is much more complicated and destructive than we realize. The current growth rate anticipates 78
million more people each year. How
many is too many we ask?
The increase in population growth is attributed to the
conditions of developing nations. Africa’s population growth rate is at 2.3%, which doubles that of
Asia’s. The reason for this rapid
increase in population lies within gender, believes Tewodros Melesse,
Director-General of the International Planned Parenthood Foundation. Being stripped of the freedom to choose
whether or not they want to have a child is the root of the problem.
With poor accessibility to contraceptives, lack of
education, and pressures of society essential to economic survival, constant
reproduction is what becomes of these women. In many countries, girls are married off at a young age,
become pregnant too early, and their education gets cut so that they can care
for their young family.
Light needs to be shed on this matter. Women need empowerment and to know that
the number of children they bear does not determine their own self-worth. Be provided with easier accessibility
to resources, medical care, and information when needed. Ultimately, be given a choice.
-Georisa Chang
SOURCE: CNN
Posts
