Population policy in transition in the developing world
Document Type
Article (peer-reviewed)
Publication Date
2011
Abstract
Po pulation growth remains rapid in the poorest countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, despite substantial AIDS mortality. Voluntary family-planning programs reduce unplanned pregnancies by providing access to and information about contraception and by reducing socioeconomic obstacles to use. With sufficient political will and resources, well-run voluntary programs have been shown to bring about sustained declines in fertility and population growth across much of Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, simply by permitting people to realize their individual reproductive goals. Such programs represent a cost-effective approach to relieving population pressures, stimulating economic development, improving health, and enhancing human freedom.
DOI
10.1126/science.1207558
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Bongaarts, John and Steven W. Sinding. 2011. "Population policy in transition in the developing world," Science 333(6042): 574–576.