Dear Colleague,

As we approach the end of a transformative year, I reflect on the incredible work we’ve accomplished together and express my deep gratitude for your dedication and unwavering commitment to UNFPA’s mission.

Having visited 17 of our country offices this year, I saw firsthand the impact of our work across this diverse region. From communities in remote islands to bustling urban cities, our collective efforts are truly changing lives in ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health services, and providing a voice to those most often left unheard. 

It was heartbreaking to also witness the immense hardships faced by women and girls living in complex political crises and humanitarian emergencies. Their beacon of hope is you – and I saw the resilience of our staff who work tirelessly in these challenging environments to reach those we serve. Your courage and dedication are nothing short of extraordinary, and I acknowledge and thank you for your exceptional contributions that are helping to transform the life of the 10-year-old girl, wherever she may be. 

This year marked the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development – a milestone that offered a unique opportunity to position UNFPA as a thought leader in sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and the fight against gender-based violence. Leveraging this moment, we engaged in key intergovernmental processes and dialogues, including the 8th IPCI in Oslo, 57th CPD in New York, 4th SIDS Conference in Antigua and Barbuda, Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Manila, Regional Ageing Conference in Bali, World Women’s Forum in Ulaanbaatar, and the Asia-Pacific review of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in Bangkok, to mention some. 

We also made significant efforts to strengthen engagements with donors, IFIs, regional cooperation bodies, our Executive Board and Oversight Advisory Committee, thereby ensuring we have the trust, resources and partnerships needed to sustain our impactful work in the region. Launching the State of World Population Report 2024 in Bangkok, Canberra, and Wellington, we highlighted the urgent need to end inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and rights by pushing forward those who are most left behind. 

Looking ahead, the challenges we face demand even greater innovation and boldness in how we work and engage with partners, as we face increasing political pushback. I am proud that this year we launched UNFPA’s Equity 2030 Alliance in the Asia-Pacific region and the Coalition for Reproductive Justice in Business in India; two initiatives that provide new and innovative ways of engaging with leading private-sector partners in the region to advance and finance our agenda.

As we close this year, let us celebrate the milestones we have all achieved together. Each project completed, each partnership forged, and each life impacted is a testament to the incredible spirit and determination that define our purpose at UNFPA. Let us also carry forward the lessons learned, the momentum we have built, and the hope that drives us to do even more in the year ahead.

Thank you for your passion and the energy you bring to your work everyday. Together, we are making a difference — one life and one community at a time. It is a privilege and a joy to work alongside all of you in this amazing region.

I wish you and your loved ones a restful and joyous holiday season, and a new year filled with health, happiness, and renewed purpose.

With gratitude and best wishes,

Pio Smith