The high-level regional conference “Enabling Choices: Population Priorities for the 21st Century”, held on 1-2 July 2013 in Geneva, Switzerland, was organized jointly by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and hosted by the Government of Switzerland.

The conference marked the culmination for the UNECE region of a process aimed at reviewing the implementation of the Programme of Action (PoA) adopted by the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), held in 1994 in Cairo, Egypt. Its objective was to assess the progress made in implementing the ICPD PoA in the region, highlight lessons learned and successful approaches, and make recommendations on the further implementation of the ICPD PoA in the UNECE region beyond 2014.

The review process in the region included the ICPD Beyond 2014 Global Survey, as well as a regional report based on the Survey results and a study of population trends and policies in the region. It also included three thematic consultations corresponding to the three thematic sessions of the regional conference, as well as consultations with civil society, young people and parliamentarians.

The UNECE Regional Report summarizes information on legislation, policies, programmes and strategies adopted and implemented by UNECE Member States in relation to the ICPD PoA. Overall, the report confirmed the PoA’s continuing relevance for achieving inclusive social and economic development, prosperous societies and environmental sustainability, based on gender equality and the respect for human rights. It indicates that significant progress has been made in policy development and programming.

At the closing session of the conference, Ambassador Urs Schmid, Chair of the Conference, presented this Summary, which was prepared in consultation with the conference participants.