In its Strategic Vision 2000-2005 and Development Plan, the Government is addressing high population growth, water scarcity and public administration as special priorities. In addition, the Population Policy (2001-2025), endorsed by the cabinet in February 2001, and other supporting sector strategies set clear objectives in terms of population, gender and basic social services, including reproductive health.

In response to a recent United Nations inquiry, the Government indicated it viewed its population, fertility and adolescent fertility rates as too high and desired to lower them. It also expressed the desire to lower its under-five and maternal mortality rates through direct support and intervention policies and programmes.

Yemen’s Constitution recognizes gender equity, but social indicators indicate the relative status of Yemeni women to be among the lowest in the world with rates of female genital cutting among the highest observed.