15 and Counting: New Campaign for ICPD +15

15 and Counting is a new campaign developed by the International Planned Parenthood Foundation (IPPF), a federation of non-governmental organizations working in 176 countries worldwide and a global leader in providing and advocating for the right to improved sexual and reproductive health. With a strategic focus to work with and deliver for young people, 15 and Counting aims to break the silence surrounding the issue of sexuality and reproduction, in order to improve the health and well being of the youth, worldwide.

Created in response to the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD, 1994) 15 and Counting’s aims include:

• Calling on governments to meet their commitments on sexual and reproductive health,
• campaigning to achieve better access to sexual and reproductive health services and education,
  
• working with young people around the world to highlight their specific needs,
  
• advocate for change and
  
• share positive experiences.

15 years after ICPD too many governments have failed to make significant strides in the arena of sexual and reproductive health. This failure puts the health and lives of millions of young people at risk. With 5 years remaining for the ICPD vision to become a reality, it is crucial that governments deliver on their promises in order to provide critical services and information to young people.

The 15 and Counting website is set up as a way to learn more about the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) as well as a platform for getting involved and making your voice heard.

There are multiple resources that help readers understand the background and motivation for 15 and Counting, as well as templates for letters to stakeholders and press releases.

Additionally, the website provides a petition, which over 1,216 people have signed thus far, that declares support for sexual rights for all. Eventually the petition will be submitted to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, reinforcing the necessity to help governments promote, protect and fulfill their promises to provide better access to sexual and reproductive health services for all.

To get involved, visit the 15 and Counting website at http://www.15andcounting.org/

Tell your co-workers, affiliated organizations (particularly, youth-serving organizations) about the campaign and refer them to the campaign website.