UNFPA representative at the event in Vietnam
“People are the solution, not the problem. Experience shows that investing in people, in their rights and choices, is the path to peaceful, prosperous and sustainable societies,” said UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem.
To commemorate the 8 billion in Vietnam, a drawing contest "I am in the 8 billion" was co-organised by UNFPA in collaboration with Vietnam Television (VTV2) from October 28 to November 14, with the theme “People are the solution, not the problem”.
There have been nearly 100 submissions from Vietnamese citizens to share their creative ideas for a better and stronger world where everyone can have an enjoyable life, and no one is left behind. In addition, two intercity buses, printed with the 8 Billion messages “8 Billion Hopes, 8 Billion Dreams, 8 Billion Solutions” will travel from the North to the South of Vietnam from November 16 to 30.
“We are much more than a number, as is the human family. Numbers matter, but let us count carefully. A resilient world of 8 billion, a world that upholds individual rights and choices, offers infinite possibilities – possibilities for people, societies and our shared planet to thrive and prosper,” said Naomi Kitahara, UNFPA Representative in Vietnam at the event.
According to the World Population Prospects 2022, the world’s population is projected to reach a peak of around 10.4 billion people during the 2080s and to remain at that level until 2100.
It took about 12 years to grow from 7 to 8 billion, approximately the same time as from 6 to 7 billion. The next billion is expected to take approx 14.5 years (2037). Half of the 8th billion added to the world population was a result of Asia’s demographic expansion. Africa made the second largest contribution (almost 400 million).