Seven billion people will inhabit the earth on 31 October 2011.

This year's State of World Population report, "People and Possibilities in a World of 7 Billion", looks at the the dynamics behind the numbers. It explains the trends that are defining our world of 7 billion and documents actions that people in vastly different countries and circumstances are taking in their own communities to make the most of their – and our – world.

The report makes the case for sound planning and investing in people.