Sana'a: The Secretary-General of the Yemeni National Population Council marked World Population Day on Saturday with a ceremony in Sana'a held under the theme, "Empowering Youth for a Prosperous and Sustainable Future." The event also featured the launch of the 2026 State of Population Report for Yemen.
According to Yemen News Agency, Dr. Ahmed Bourji, the Secretary-General, emphasized the significance of World Population Day as a moment to review demographic developments and tackle challenges related to population growth, health, and education, along with their influence on sustainable development. He pointed out that the year's theme highlights the necessity of investing in the youth, viewing them as a crucial force for development and an essential national asset. Bourji referred to population issues as a fundamental element in achieving sustainable development and enhancing human well-being.
Dr. Bourji also mentioned that the ongoing conflict and blockade since 2015 have disrupted development efforts focused on improving health, education, and demographic indicators. This disruption has damaged infrastructure and public services, halted numerous development projects, and increased poverty, especially among women, children, and youth.
Assistant Secretary-General Mutahar Zubarah noted that Yemen continues to face significant demographic, economic, social, and humanitarian challenges due to the conflict and blockade. He stressed that the event also sheds light on the difficulties endured by Yemenis because of travel restrictions and limited access to medical treatment abroad. Despite challenging operating conditions, the Council remains committed to assessing demographic conditions and preparing population reports.
Zubarah highlighted the importance of investing in youth, describing it as "an investment in Yemen's future," given that young people make up the largest segment of the population and represent a significant opportunity if adequately supported. The Council's estimates predict that Yemen's population will reach 36.3 million by 2026, with an annual growth rate of approximately 2.8 percent, which will increase pressure on education, healthcare, water resources, housing, and employment opportunities.
He called for comprehensive population and development policies to tackle these increasing demands. The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the 2026 State of Population Report. The report provides an analysis of Yemen's demographic situation in 2025, projects trends through 2035, and examines their implications for education, healthcare, labor force development, water scarcity, and sustainable resource management while offering policy recommendations and a strategic framework to manage future demographic changes.