Sri Lanka, July 14 -- The future of Asia and the Pacific will be shaped not by fertility rates or population trends alone, but by whether young people have reason to hope, according to UNFPA Asia and the Pacific Regional Director Dr. Aleksandar (Sasha) Bodiroza.

In a statement issued to mark World Population Day, Dr. Bodiroza said governments across the region are increasingly focused on declining fertility rates, ageing populations and demographic shifts, but warned that public debate often overlooks the real challenges facing young people.

He said decisions about pursuing higher education, starting a family or remaining in one's community are influenced not only by personal preferences but also by access to opportunities and economic...