Africa: UN HIV/Aids Advocate and ‘Proud Champion’ of Women Dies At 92

Nafis Sadik, a woman who died Monday at the ripe old age of 92, was first to lead one of the UN’s major voluntarily funded programs. Her legacy includes many contributions to women’s rights as well as their health.

Stephane Dujarric, UN Spokesperson, stated that she “repeatedly called attention to the important of addressing women’s needs and of including women directly in the making and executing of development policy. This was especially important for programs and policies relating to population.” said In a statement for the UN chief

Her native Pakistani, she was the Executive Director of UN Population Fund (UNFPA), Special advisor to the Secretary General and Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS Asia and the Pacific.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Nafis Said, Former @UNFPA Executive Director. We extend our sincere condolences Dr. Sadik’s loved ones, the Pakistani people and all those who are grieving her loss. @Atayeshe‘s statement: https://t.co/G86koAVkl2 pic.twitter.com/kKkzlK8l0NUNFPA (@UNFPA). August 15, 2022

“Dr. Sadik will be remembered” Her significant contributions to women’s rights and health, and her tireless efforts in fighting HIV/AIDS.“He saidThe UN chief ends by offering her condolences to her loved ones.

“Trailblazer” for women

Current UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem, who was “profoundly saddened” at the news, described Dr. Sadik’s death as “profoundly disturbing”.Be proud to be the champion of your choice Unwavering advocate for women’s rights, health, and empowerment

In 1994, the UNFPA’s late chief served as Secretary General of the International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo (ICPD), and was also responsible for its pioneering Programme of Action.

Ms. Kanem described Dr. Sadik by describing her as “a trailblazer that made indelible contributions towards advancing sexual and reproduction health and rights and women’s leadership and international development”.

“She was a bold visionary and leader in Cairo, setting the world on an ambitious course. The journey took place through Beijing and the 1995 World Conference on Women. This helped to shape the Millennium Development Goals. “This journey has transformed the lives of millions upon millions of girls and women,” stated Ms. Kanem.

‘Transformative power’

Dr. Sadik, who had a long and distinguished career, stressed the importance to address women’s needs and involve women in decision-making and driving development policy.

She made the world see that people are at center of development. If we remove any obstacles and uphold our rights, then they and their societies thrive – particularly women. said Ms. Kanem.

“She was a shining example of the transformative power that women’s leadership can have.”

She repeatedly highlighted the importance to address the needs for women — UN chief

Cairo

“Since Cairo has been home to millions of young girls and women, they have come to know that their bodies are theirs, and that their futures are theirs,” she said. saidThis refers to the Conference that came to a consensus on a set of goals including improved access for women in secondary and higher education, reduction in infant and child mortality, and greater access to reproductive, sexual and health services like family planning.

“The ICPD Programme of Action remains a lasting testament to Dr. Sadik’s determination and courage.” It remains our road map to a world with reproductive rights and choices for everyone, nearly three decades later,” Ms. Kanem said.

The former UNFPA chief spoke 25 years ago at the Beijing Women’s Conference. said The first sign of respect for women’s reproductive rights is their support.

“They support women in activities other that reproduction. In fact, they liberate women from a set of values that insists reproduction is their only function.”

Decades of dedication

Dr. Sadik joined UNFPA on 21 April 1971. She served as the Assistant Executive Director until 1977, when she was elected as the Executive Director. Before joining the Organization, as an obstetrician-gynecologist by training, she was Director-General of the Pakistan Central Family Planning Council.

She retired from the Population Fund in 2000 and served as the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy on HIV/AIDS in Asia/Pacific.

From UN Women to UNAIDS and the World Health Organization, UN Family members praised their deceased colleague on Twitter and shared deep sorrow over her passing.

Ms. Kanem expressed her deepest condolences on behalf of UNFPA to Dr. Sadik and her family. She also extended her sympathies to the Government of Pakistan and Pakistani people.