Overview

The Commission on Population and Development is a functional commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council that focuses on population issues and their impacts on sustainable development. The CPD plays a key role in monitoring and reviewing the implementation of international agreements regarding population and addresses specific issues such as migration, urbanization, and reproductive health. In this committee, delegates will explore changing demographic changes that largely impact the economic and social well-being of a variety of states with the topics of declining birth rates and access to alternative methods of reproduction.

Topic 1: Declining Birth Rates in Developed Countries

Although the overall population of the world remains increasing, birth rates in more developed countries are steadily declining, creating concerns over the future of the economy. Nations experience fertility rates below replacement levels due to high living costs, changing social norms, delayed family planning, and increased participation of women in higher education and the workforce.With aging populations and fewer children being born to replace the workforce, many countries fear a total collapse in their labor force. Additionally, these demographic changes put pressure on social welfare systems, notably pension systems and healthcare. In this committee, delegates will find strategies that support families, social systems, and individual rights while promoting sustainable demographic balances.

Topic 2: Access to Alternative Methods of Reproduction

Alternative methods of reproduction, such as in vitro fertilization, have become globally widespread yet are far from being universally available. These advances in medical technology that provide greater opportunities for individuals and couples to build families have concentrated benefits in the wealthier populations of developed countries as a result of high costs, gaps in healthcare infrastructure, and legal restrictions. These inequities in reproductive treatment further existing global disparities based on income and geography. Delegates will explore how to make such treatments affordable, accessible, and equitable so that those who cannot conceive naturally still have the opportunity to start families.