ENB:06:30
[
Next] .
[
Previous] .
[
Contents]
THE CHALLENGE FOR CAIRO:
In spite of the progress made in
elaboration of the Programme of Action, a number of key issues must
be resolved in Cairo. Delegates must still:
- reach agreement on the difficult definitions: family planning; reproductive and sexual health and rights; and safe motherhood;
- address the reproductive and sexual health needs of adolescents;
- deal with preamble and principles (Chapters I and II); and
- agree on the resource requirements;
The success of the Cairo Conference depends largely on the content
and comprehensiveness of the Programme of Action. If the Vatican
and its allies continue to hold the Conference hostage to views on
reproductive health and family planning that may adhere to one set
of beliefs, which are not in themselves challenged, but which, many
feel, do not reflect today's realities, negotiations in Cairo will
sacrifice more valuable time that could be used to strengthen other
provisions and improve the overall Programme of Action.