Key Takeaways:

• Over 150 youth joined policymakers at the Kathmandu event
• UNFPA survey shows young people delaying marriage and family due to economic barriers
• Officials call for evidence-based policies and a demographic dividend roadmap

KATHMANDU, JULY 17 The Government of Nepal, in collaboration with the National Youth Council and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), marked World Population Day 2026 by calling for youth aspirations to be placed at the heart of the country's demographic and development policies. The event, held under the national theme 'Realising the hopes and aspirations of young people-today and for the future,' brought together policymakers and more than 150 young people to discuss Nepal's demographic transition and its implications for future development. The programme also marked the national launch of UNFPA's Demographic Futures Survey, which gathered responses from nearly 109,000 young people across 73 countries. The survey found that while young people continue to aspire to marriage and family life, many are delaying those goals due to economic uncertainty, limited employment opportunities, housing challenges and other structural barriers. Speaking at the event, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, Education and Information Technology, Dr Ojaswi Sherchan, stressed the need for evidence-based policymaking to respond to changing aspirations of young people. National Youth Council Administrative Chief Gehanath Gautam said Nepal is undergoing a crucial demographic transition, moving from a youthful population towards an ageing society while experiencing high levels of internal and foreign migration. He said national strategies, including the proposed Demographic Dividend Roadmap, should reflect the realities and aspirations of young people. UNFPA Nepal Representative Sriram Haridass said demographic change should be viewed beyond population figures, emphasising that policies must enable young people to realise their aspirations through informed choices and equal opportunities. The event also featured a panel discussion in which youth representatives directly engaged with policymakers on issues affecting decisions related to education, employment, migration, relationships and parenthood. Youth activist Rita Thapa said many young people want to pursue education, careers and family life but continue to face structural barriers that limit their opportunities. UNFPA said it will continue working with the Government of Nepal, the National Youth Council and development partners to strengthen demographic planning, expand access to education and decent employment, promote sexual and reproductive health and ensure demographic change contributes to inclusive and sustainable development.