United Nations

Counting Everyone for Inclusive Progress

Peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet

DATA AND STATISTICS, POPULATION

Ongoing Programs

Yoga Retreats

Special Events

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Dharma

Growing or shrinking? What the latest trends tell us about the world’s population

 

11 July 2024 — The global population reached nearly 8.2 billion by mid-2024 and is expected to grow by another two billion over the next 60 years, peaking at around 10.3 billion in the mid-2080s…

— Alan Watts

Welcome to Great Lotus

Over the past three decades, societies have significantly improved population data gathering, leading to better health care and the empowerment of sexual and reproductive rights. However, marginalized communities remain underrepresented, affecting their well-being. As we mark World Population Day – July 11, we ask who remains uncounted and why. Investing in robust data collection is crucial for identifying issues, crafting targeted solutions, and fostering equitable development. Let’s commit to refining our data systems to fully embrace human diversity, empowering everyone to realize their rights and aspirations.

Our Courses

Digital boom could well be a bust for the environment, warns UN trade agency

 

10 July 2024 — Did you know that producing a computer weighing two kilogrammes (kg) requires a staggering 800kg of raw materials? Or that the energy required for data mining for bitcoins reached…

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UN Sustainable Development Goals

17 Goals to transform our world

The Sustainable Development Goals are a call for action by all countries — poor, rich and middle-income — to promote prosperity while protecting the planet.

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‘We the Women’ survey results

Amid a global backlash against women’s rights, women are committed to championing rights and representation. Survey results from 185 countries show that 86 per cent cite climate change, and more than 50 per cent identify conflict as primary concerns for the next decade. Mental health and family responsibilities are seen as barriers to reaching full potential. Access the full report and the We the Women campaign.

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Student Resources on the SDGs

ActNow is the UN campaign to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the lead up to the Summit of the Future, join the 1 Million Actions for our Common Future challenge to contribute to a more sustainable and peaceful world. Find new inspiring actions on the app and at un.org/actnow.

GOAL OF THE MONTH

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Tuesday Evening

Special Focus: High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development

Five SDGs will be reviewed in depth: 

More from the United Nations

Featured stories from across the United Nations and our world-wide family of agencies, funds, and programmes.

Sunday 10.30 - 11.45am
This class is free.

Meditation

Family fun with meditations, games, stories and activities. Children will be gently guided in relaxing meditations.
Sunday 10.30 - 11.45am
Class fee: $4

Mindfulness

FREE 15 minute meditation in the Temple. Everyone is welcome to join these free 15 minute guided meditations.
Sunday 10.30 - 11.45am
This class is free.

CLIMATE, UNDP ‘Super year’ for climate action

We are at a critical juncture in the climate crisis, and 2024 is a landmark year for democracy. These two historical milestones are not just coinciding; they are intertwined and essential to the shape of our future. In what’s being called a ‘super year’ for elections, half of the world’s adult population will have the chance to go to the polls, and climate action is one of the factors which affect how people vote. With a changing political landscape, 2024 could be a turning point to stabilize the climate and secure a livable planet for today and for generations to come.