Selected demographic and socio-economic follow-up and evaluation indicators for the implementation of ICPD/POA recommendations.

This paper suggests selected demographic social economic and environmental indicators for follow-up and evaluation of the implementation of International Conference on Population and Development/Programme of Action (ICPD/POA) recommendations which would be suited to various developing countries on both macro/micro and national/subnational levels. Given that monitoring and evaluation is a continuous process thus it should be a systematic and objective for the determination of the relevance effectiveness and impacts of policy implications and program targets. These indicators cover five major priority areas: 1) demographic indicators; 2) reproductive health indicators; 3) population and social development indicators; 4) population and economic development indicators; and 5) population and environment indicators. Furthermore the paper defines sustainable development as a multidimensional concept that includes economic sociocultural environmental and political dimensions which can improve the quality of life for all people. Moreover a set of 15 principles is identified in the ICPD paradigm to guide the participant countries in the implementation of the recommendations included in its POA. Its emphasis are on the rights of human beings to be at the center of concern for sustainable development; on gender equality; and on individuals quality of life instead of on demographic targets. The paper concludes with recommendations for the enhancement of monitoring and evaluating the implementation of ICPD/POA recommendations.