Frequently Asked Questions
What do the letters “UNFPA” stand for?
UNFPA used to stand for United Nations Fund for Population Activities, though this name is no longer in use. Today, UNFPA is known as the United Nations sexual and reproductive health and rights agency.
What is the history and mission of UNFPA?
UNFPA was founded in 1967 and began its operations in 1969. At the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo, 179 governments determined that sexual and reproductive health and rights were human rights and that women’s empowerment and gender equality were necessary to advance the well-being of all. The ICPD is the foundation of UNFPA’s mission today, which is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every woman and girl can reach her fullest potential.
What is USA for UNFPA?
USA for UNFPA is a US–based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, dedicated to building support for UNFPA’s work within the United States. We raise awareness among Americans about global sexual and reproductive health issues and mobilize support to provide lifesaving care to women and girls. Donations to USA for UNFPA are tax-deductible.
Does UNFPA operate in the United States?
UNFPA does not provide sexual and reproductive health care services in the United States.
At USA for UNFPA, we work closely with UNFPA to mobilize support for women and girls and bring Americans the latest updates on global sexual and reproductive health issues.
How does UNFPA work with men and boys?
We work with women and girls to provide them with the sexual and reproductive health care they need to thrive at home, at school or work, and in their communities. We also provide skills training and employment opportunities, including in roles traditionally held by men. We advocate for policies that advance gender equality at the community and national levels.
The wellbeing and success of women and girls cannot be realized without the partnership of men and boys. As partners, fathers, faith and community leaders, educators, peers, policymakers, health care providers, and advocates, men and boys have a huge role to play in advancing gender equality. UNFPA has a variety of projects and programs aimed specifically at men and boys, including:
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Skills training for new dads, where they learn how to change diapers and swaddle their newborns.
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Education sessions with faith and community leaders about the harms of violence against women and girls, including practices like child marriage and female genital mutilation.
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Family planning counseling where men learn about the importance of birth spacing and different types of contraception, including vasectomy. They also receive information about the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.
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Classes with teenage boys where stereotypes about masculinity and risky behavior are challenged, especially in regard to sexual or romantic relationships.
Sexual and reproductive health and rights are for all of us. But, without the partnership of men and boys, the health and rights of women and girls will never be achieved.
How can I support women and girls?
The best way to support women and girls is to make a donation. We rely entirely on voluntary funding from supporters like you to deliver lifesaving care to women and girls. Monthly donations are especially effective because they enable us to respond immediately when crisis strikes. Monthly gifts also allow us to plan ahead and lower our administrative costs. This means that more of your gift goes directly to women and girls.
When you make a gift, you agree to receive our email updates. You can always unsubscribe in the email or by contacting us here.
You can also get the latest updates on global sexual and reproductive health by joining our mailing list or by following us on social media. Hearing from women and girls and understanding their experiences is key to achieving a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every woman and girls can reach her fullest potential.
Where does my donation go?