The core message of the ICPD – that a fundamental commitment to individual dignity and human rights is the basis of a resilient and sustainable future – can define a set of pathways to achieve sustainable development for all. When asked to identify the population and sustainable development issues anticipated to receive public policy priority for the next five to ten years, 70 per cent of governments listed “social sustainability, poverty reduction and rights.” This was followed by “environmental sustainability” (52 per cent). Only 25 per cent listed “economic growth” as a priority.
