April 2003, Nr. 46

Deadline for contributions: 31.05.2003
					
Vienna NGO Committee on the Family
*Brunngasse 12/2, A-3100 St. Pölten, Austria
Phone: 43-2742-352718, Fax: 43-1-352718-5
e-mail: famcom.vienna@utanet.at
Web: http://www.viennafamilycommittee.org
For contributions to ‘Families International’:
e-mail: ematt@vki.or.at

From The Desk Of The Editors
Dear reader, we want to thank you for your contributions that make up this edition. We cannot publish this Bulletin without your help. 
You are invited to collaborate and to send us your contributions as well as your suggestions as to topics for future issues. 

Eva Matt and Winston Sims

Table of Contents

SPECIAL FEATURE
Issues involved in pregnancy discontinuation	2

VIENNA NGO COMMITTEE ON THE FAMILY	4
	
FAMILY-RELATED NGO NEWS 		12
	
RECENT AND FORTHCOMING EVENTS 	14

PUBLICATIONS 	18

INTRODUCING 	20

NEWS FROM THE UNITED NATIONS 	21

ISSUES INVOLVED
IN PREGNANCY
DISCONTINUATION

Special Feature: Issues Involved in Pregnancy Discontinuation

By Winston Sims March 2003
"Issues Involved in Pregnancy Discontinuation".
An article on family might be expected to focus on the joys and delights of family life. Among these joys and delights of marriage, are love, childbearing, the growth and development of our children, their children, sharing and companionship. It is often pointed out that if these joys were not so intense and if they did not exert such a powerful influence on us, we would not find their absence to be so disruptive and disturbing. To the extent that we can experience happiness, so can we experience sadness. These elements, therefore, constitute a central aspect of family life. A pregnancy, depending on whether it is planned or unplanned, wanted or unwanted, can precipitate both joy and/or anguish. Why both? Because any pregnancy can conjure feelings of hopefulness and hopelessness, continuity and rupture, confidence and inadequacy, joy and sadness, the welcoming and the fear of so old and so new a thing, relief and stress, support and dismissal, approbation and disapproval, encouragement and disparagement, delight and despair, fulfilment and longing. Where the reactions are not primarily positive ones, such as of joy, there are few events that precipitate a more anguishing experience for any couple than a decision as to whether to continue a pregnancy or not. The writer firmly believes that nobody has actually ever wanted an abortion per se. Rather decisions to undergo an abortion are almost always seen as pressured or forced by familial or social, economic circumstances. There are many reasons why abortions have been sought and why they are avoided. Reasons related to having or avoiding an abortion:
A number of factors may inhibit or confirm an inclination towards having an abortion. In one context a factor that may inhibit the having of an abortion, might, in another context, serve to support or confirm an inclination to having an abortion. 
But all too often, pregnancy may be a time of conflict: conflict as to oneAeos own level of preparedness and maturity; oneAeos dreams for oneAeos own growth, development, future education and employment; conflict with oneAeos partner and/or the quality of the relationship with that partner; conflict with oneAeos own parents; the family of oneAeos partner; conflict with the norms and values of oneAeos clan, society or culture; conflict with the tenets of oneAeos own religion; conflicts because of the distances between oneAeos own expectations and those of others. These factors form the greatest sources of stress or tension in the thinking and emotions of both the woman and the couple. The conflicts mentioned above often function at a very real though more generalized level. Often these conflicts arise from the influence of a range of more precise factors including the following:
a) Having reached AeudesiredAeu family size. Most abortions are not sought by young unmarried women engaged in a relationship but by women who have been married for some time, have established their own family, have attained the desired number of children, and who may be at risk for elevated levels of morbidity or mortality associated with a childbearing age over 30-35 years. A pregnancy under these circumstances may be seen as unplanned.
b) Unplanned pregnancy: Unplanned pregnancies may be either wanted, unwanted or greeted with a degree of uncertainty. Unplanned pregnancy may be associated with lack of contraception, lack of access to contraception, an incomplete understanding of the proper use of contraception when it is available, and/or ineffective contraception. The number of women in this category is not small. AeuWorldwide, more than a quarter of women who have become pregnant have either an abortion or an unwanted birth, Aeu (Alan Guttmacher Institute, Sharing Responsibility: Women, Society and Abortion Worldwide, New York, Chart 6.1, p. 43) Interestingly, in the developed countries (where average desired family size is small), of the 28 million pregnancies occurring every year, an estimated 49% are unplanned, and 36% end in abortion. (Alan Guttmacher Institute, Sharing Responsibility: Women, Society and Abortion Worldwide, New York, Chart 6.1, p. 42) In the developing countries (where average family size is larger), of the 182 million pregnancies occurring every year, an estimated 36% are unplanned, and 20% end in abortion. Two factors might account for the elevated levels of unplanned pregnancies in developed countries as compared to the developing countries: the fact that much smaller families are the norm in the more developed countries and that Eastern Europe with among the highest levels of unplanned pregnancies and abortions are considered among the developed countries. AeuOverall women in developed and developing regions have strikingly similar abortion levels Aei 39 procedures per 1,000 and 34 per 1,000 respectively.Aeu (Alan Guttmacher Institute, Sharing Responsibility: Women, Society and Abortion Worldwide, New York, Chart 6.1, p. 26) It should be noted that of all pregnancies, 63% result in a live birth, 20% in induced abortions and 15% in miscarriages and stillbirths. (Alan Guttmacher Institute, Sharing Responsibility: Women, Society and Abortion Worldwide, New York, Chart 6.1, p. 42) 
c) Maternal morbidity and mortality associated with carrying to term: Although this factor probably remains unknown to most women, and therefore might not enter into their considerations, in some societies there is a clear recognition of this factor. There is a morbidity/mortality associated with carrying a routine pregnancy to term. This depends in part on the quality of medical care available as well and the fact that women who make use of contraception are more likely to take advantage of a range of local health care services. AeuIn Ethiopia, 2 per cent of women use modern contraception and the risk of maternal death is 1 in 9. In Brazil where nearly 3/4ths of women use birth control, maternal mortality rates are 1 in 130.Aeu (USAID) Population Resource Center, The Replacement of Abortion by Contraception in Three Asian Republics, 1998.) 
d) Morbidity/mortality of those undergoing abortions.
AeuAbortion mortality is low in developed countries, where the procedure is usually legal (0.2-1.2 deaths per 100,000 abortions). But in developing countries (excluding China), where abortion is usually illegal or highly restricted, abortion mortality is hundreds of times higher than in developed countries (330 deaths per 100,000 abortions).Aeu (Alan Guttmacher Institute, Sharing Responsibility: Women, Society and Abortion Worldwide, New York, Chart 6.1, p. 35) 
e) Limited or no access to effective contraception:
Access might be limited because of geographic remoteness, because of a limited range of contraceptives, because the cost of these to the family is beyond their means or because available contraceptives are known to be ineffective. All of these severely narrow the choice available to women. It should be noted that fewer than 5% of couples rely on male methods which include the use of condoms, vasectomy and withdrawal. Abortion should never become a means of family planning. Reliance should always be placed on safer, more readily available, less expensive, preventive measures such as contraceptives. Primary reliance on abortion may take place in areas where contraceptive means are illegal or severely limited.
f) Birth control failure. Any contraceptive, however effective, can fail. Depending on the contraceptive, failure rates might range from infrequent to slightly more. The failure of a contraceptive method can be a key factor in an unplanned pregnancy and the seeking of an abortion.
g) Wanting to limit the number of children.
This is a function of the preferences of each family based on whatever factors the couple believes to be of importance to it.
h) Wanting to increase the spacing between children for maximum maternal health. Spacing is a key factor where every woman requires a certain time, often two years, to enable her to restore an appropriate level of nutrition, medical care to regain her optimal strength for minimizing both maternal and infant morbidity and mortality.
i) Each child should be a wanted child. A child who is wanted colors to a great extent the attitudes of parents, the caring, charity, loving, sharing, generosity and other tangible and intangible factors that determine to a large extent the ability of a child not only to survive but to thrive.
j) Poverty. Poverty does not result in poor or bad parents. It does however, color their thinking as to their ability to provide the range of privileges, opportunities, or just the most humble housing, health care, feeding and care. This can be a powerful element when there is insufficient housing space for the existing children; there is insufficient food; there is insufficient in come for education, health services and clothing. 
k) Age: It is well known that, associated with pregnancies under the ages of 19-20 or over the age of 30-35, there are increased rates of maternal morbidity and mortality.
l) Religious and ethical: Some believe that life begins at the moment of conception, that a fetus is a life and the taking of a life is wrong. This is an important belief and is often made on theological or religious grounds. In some jurisdictions efforts have been made to have these beliefs incorporated into legislation. Interestingly, those who make this argument seem never to have made any effort to support that position in legislation to the ends of increasing peopleAeos ages by 9 months, including reaching age of majority, age for voting, driving a car, and receiving social security.
m) Legal issues: Illegality of procedure often means a lack of medically safe and sound procedures meaning that where abortion is often illegal or highly restricted, abortion is hundreds of times higher than in developing countries. Aeu (Alan Guttmacher Institute, Sharing Responsibility: Women, Society and Abortion Worldwide, New York, Chart 6.1, p. 35) The illegality of abortion usually drives women to unsafe providers or Aeuback alleyAeu procedures wherein the morbidity mortality is vastly higher.
n) Child or infant health: This depends primarily on the health of the motherAethe period of time between the delivery of the earlier child and the delivery of the nextAethis period should probably not be less than two years, the quality of nutrition and available health care. The ability of a woman to regain her health following birth also depends on the degree to which she is supported by her husband or partner. These factors then are central to the health of the child as they affect the quality of care in the home, nursing, early feedings, and the inclination of parents to obtain health care when that becomes necessary.
o) Role of men, the sharing of roles and responsibilities and communication between partners
Women may be less inclined to continue a pregnancy where they believe themselves to be effectively abandoned by their partner whether physically or emotionally. In such cases, requisite supportive, protective and participatory roles and attitudes on the part of men may be absent resulting in the effective ignoring of the well-being of their partners. Perhaps male status is reflected in large numbers of children. In other, often more traditional ways, male partners might not share in the concerns of their partner, may be disrespectful, abusive and may not share roles and responsibilities related to child care and care of the household. This might be a real problem should it be the case that almost all functions in and around the house, those connected with the raising of the children and those related to income generation are left by the father to the responsibility of the mother. All of these can lead to stresses and tensions in the relationships. All of these issues have a dramatic impact on family formation, and the well-being of families. What can be done to reduce maternal mortality?
 - reducing the total number of pregnancies each woman has.
 - reducing the number of births to very young women (<17 years) and to older women (>35). - reducing the use of abortion to end unwanted pregnancies.
 -reducing the number of pregnancies to women with major health problems.
Infant and child mortality may be reduced by:
 -reducing the number of births that occur within approximately two years of a previous birth;
 - reducing the number of children born to very young mothers (those under 15 years of age);
 - reducing the number of children born to poor women in poor health;
 - reducing the number of high-order births (especially the 5th or higher-order births.)  (The Origins and Evolution of Family Planning Programs in Developing Countries, MR 1276, Chapter 4. pdf , pp. 77-78.)

VIENNA NGO COMMITTEE ON THE FAMILY

VIENNA  NGO  COMMITTEE  ON THE FAMILY
www.viennafamilycommittee.org

ANNUAL REPORT 2002

PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES
In two Full Committee Meetings representatives of the 42 International Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in official relations with the United Nations, who are members of the Committee and the 23 associate member organisations discussed various areas of activities and approved the proposed Action Plan 2002. The Board of the Committee worked out a schedule for implementation which was realised in co-operation with the working groups of the Committee and the support of the member organisations and their representatives. The world wide network of approximately 1000 institutions, non-governmental organisations, research and university institutes, government agencies and individuals continues to be, not only a beneficiary of the information exchange, but is in many cases, directly involved in the work of the Committee. The Organisation ‘European Federation of Women working in the Home (FEFAF) became a full member and the National Centre for the Family (NCR) from the Czech Republic became an associate members of the Committee in 2002.

The following projects were realised in 2002

1.	Families International

Four issues, Nos. 42 – 45 of the Quarterly Bulletin of the Committee, including the following special features were published: The United Nations Commission for Social Development 2002, Ageing and Intergenerational Support of Families and Families and HIV/Aids. The Board of the Committee has set up, with the support of the network, an up-dated mailing list to send Families International also per e-mail. This resulted in 80% of the recipients of FI being able to receive their copy via e-mail.

2.	International Day of the Family 2002

The theme of the Day for the year 2002 was “Families and Ageing: Opportunities and Challenges”.  The Statement of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Kofi Annan, on the above mentioned theme was distributed to the international network of the Committee. To celebrate the International Day of the Family 2002 the Committee organised, within a Full Committee Meeting, an International Seminar, including two working groups, at the United Nations in Vienna, entitled “The Changing Role of Fathers and Mothers in Society” with 
presentations by Prof. Dr. Wassilios Fthenakis, Professor for Applied Developmental Psychology and Family Research at the University of Augsburg in Germany and Director of the State Institute for Early Education in Munich and by Ms Ilse Spritzendorfer, Reginal Co-Ordinator for Europe for the International Federation of Business and Professional Women.

A further International Seminar entitled “Prevention Direct from Birth” on the issue of  violence in families, with a presentation by Dr. Juergen Schmetz, Director of the Institute for Prevention and Early Intervention in Childhood and Youth in Hamburg, was organised by the Committee during a 2nd Full Committee Meeting at the United Nations in Vienna.

3.	Co-operation with the United Nations Organisation

a.	Active participation at the 40th Session of the Commission for Social Development (CSD) in New York in February 2002 which focused on “The Integration of Social and Economic Policy”
b.	Presentation of an INGO Statement which was prepared by the members of the Committee and signed by international member organisations before becoming an official document of the CSD 2002. 
c.	Presentation of an oral statement by the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Committee to the CSD. 
d.	Exchange of views and discussion of possible areas of co-operation with the Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Family Unit in New York
e.	Participation by the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson in a consultative meeting of international and regional NGOs set up by the Family Unit of the United Nations Secretariat in New York to implement a resolution of the United Nations General Assembly to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the International Year of the Family (IYF) in 2004. Resulting out of the 4th consultative meeting it was decided to set up a study, under the chairmanship of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, to document the positive contributions of civil society to the well-being of families since IYF. The results of the study are to be presented to a plenary meeting of the General Assembly of the United Nations (cf. Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the General Assembly - A/57/139, 2002)
f.	The Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations (DESA) have agreed to set up an Interactive-Internet-Forum with the support of international NGOs in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC) and associated with the Department of Information of the United Nations (UN/DPI) to prepare a report on (a) past and present projects carried out for families since 1994 by each international NGO: and (b) plans of each international NGO to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004. Categories will be formed according to the substantive issues addressed by the INGOs, such as education, health promotion, and HIV/Aids. Search engines will seek out organisations clustered in these categories. Each participating organisation can make use of an interactive online conference and discussion board. Information specific to each of the participating organisations, can be updated by each organisation itself using a user identity code. (cf. Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the 41st session of the Commission for Social Development).
g.	Preparation and submission of an INGO Statement to the 41st Session of the 
h.	Commission for Social Development in 2003, which will consider the priority theme; “National and International Co-operation for Social Development”

4.	Website and Homepage of the Committee

The Board of the Committee commissioned the setting up of a home-page, which became available in April 2001, to widen the impact of the information exchange in which the Committee is engaged and to help heighten the awareness of and focus on the celebration of the tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family, which the General Assembly of the United Nations has declared for 2004, by having a special section of the home-page devoted to the preparations for 2004. The Web-site can further be used as an instrument of communication within the projects and numerous networks of the Committee as well as to enlarge it’s membership. Funding for the Home-page was obtained from the Austrian Federal Ministry for Social Affairs and Generations. It also offers the opportunity of cutting costs of the Committee, by offering the possibility to readers of the Committee’s Quarterly Bulletin, ‘Families International,’ to download it from the Internet.

5.	Building Networks of Family-Oriented Organisations in Eastern African Countries – Establishment of an Interactive-Internet-Forum

An evaluation of a pilot project on building networks of family-oriented organisations with over 50 family-oriented NGOs in Kenya led to a decision by the Board and Full Committee to pursue and extend this project into it’s next stage in Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia & Zimbabwe, by setting up an interactive-Internet-forum with the participating organisations. A special section of the Web-site has become a forum for the Eastern African NGOs to interact with each other at will and with the help of a coded password to update their own section of the Home-page. This information, including a descriptive sociological analysis and statistical index of the data from the projects, is also available to all those visitors who click into the Committee home-page.

6.	Building Networks of Family-Oriented Organisations in Central and Eastern European Countries

The Committee further set up in 2002 an Interactive-Internet-Forum for the 50 members of the present network of family-oriented NGOs in Central and Eastern European Countries, which was first published in a special issue of Families International in 1998. This allows the participating members of the network with the help of their own individual password to update the information on their organisation and it’s activities. Organisations grouped under various categories, such as education, health, poverty eradication, Aids/HIV, human rights and gender issues, are further accessible. A sociological descriptive analysis and statistical index of the data are included. 

PROPOSED PLAN OF ACTION 2003

1. Service To The International Network For Information Exchange

FAMILIES INTERNATIONAL (Quarterly Bulletin of the VIENNA NGO COMMITTEE ON THE FAMILY): expanding the information exchange value of the publication in our world wide network of ca. 700 participants through:
a)	SPECIAL FEATURES on topics of interest to families, family issues & policies
b)	NEWS FROM THE UNITED NATIONS relevant to families
c)	NEWS FROM THE VIENNA NGO COMMITTEE ON THE FAMILY
d)	FAMILY RELATED NGO NEWS
e)	RECENT AND FORTHCOMING EVENTS
f)	PUBLICATIONS - periodicals and magazines 
g) 	INTRODUCTION OF FAMILY-ORIENTED ORGANISATIONS 
h) 	INFORMATION DOCUMENT RELATED TO THE THEME OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FAMILIES 2003 & 
i) 	UP TO DATE INFORMATION ON THE PREPARATIONS FOR AND CELEBRATION OF THE 10th ANNIVERSARY OF IYF 2004

2. Cooperation With The United Nations
·	COOPERATION with the programme ON THE FAMILY within The Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) 
·	 PARTICIPATION in consultative meetings with international and regional NGOs organised by the UNITED NATIONS to facilitate the preparations for the celebration of the 10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE FAMILY (IYF) IN 2004 
·	LOBBYING at Commission for Social Development (CSD) 2003 in New York
·	SUBMISSION of joint INGO written statement prepared by the COMMITTEE, as well as oral statement to the CSD

3. Focus On Family-Oriented NGOs In Eastern African Countries

Implementation & extension of project: "building networks of family-oriented NGOs in eastern African countries" by setting up an interactive-internet-forum to facilitate the maintenance of a network between participating NGOs, in Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia & Zimbabwe & local, national and international institutions

4. Focus on family-oriented NGOs in central and eastern European countries

Maintenance of interactive internet forum of family-oriented NGOs in CEEC countries

5. Study to asses the positive contribution of civil society to the well-being of families since 
IYF 1994

Establishment of an interactive internet forum of INGOs accredited with the economic and social council of the United Nations in co-operation with the PROGRAMME ON THE FAMILY within DESA 
 
6. International DAY OF FAMILIES 2003

International seminar May 2003 to celebrate the 9th International Day of Families

7. Implementation of the proposed Plan of Action for the 10th ANNIVERSARY OF IYF IN 2004

8. Working groups of the VIENNA NGO COMMITTEE ON THE FAMILY:

Developing countries / central and eastern European countries / commission for social development / Families International / 10th anniversary international year of the family 2004

Commission for Social Development        (Statement prepared and submitted by the Vienna NGO 
Forty-First Session 10-21 February 2003       Committee  on the Family on behalf of the undersigned
Item 3(b) (ii) of the provisional agenda:          INGOS)
Review of relevant United Nations plans and programmes of action pertaining to the situation of social groups: preparations for and observance of the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family.

Statement
We, the signatory international non-governmental organisations listed above, in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council, recall that:
“As the family is recognised as a fundamental unit of society, efforts should be made to support, protect and strengthen it in agreement with each society’s system of cultural values and in responding to the needs of its ageing members.” (Vienna International Plan of Action on Aging, World Assembly on Aging, August 1982).

“(f) Recognition of the crucial importance of families, intergenerational interdependence, solidarity and reciprocity for social development” (Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, II World Assembly on Ageing, April 2002, advance unedited version);

 “Men and women have the right to live their lives and raise their children in dignity, free from hunger and from the fear of violence, oppression or injustice” (General Assembly resolution 55/2, United Nations Millennium Declaration, September 2000).

“The family is the basic unit of society and as such should be strengthened. It is entitled to receive comprehensive protection and support. The primary responsibility for the protection, upbringing and development of children rests with the family. All institutions of society should respect children’s rights and secure their well-being and render appropriate assistance to parents, families, legal guardians and other caregivers.” (“A world fit for children”, UN Special Session on Children, Final Declaration, May 2002)

The family is a sensitive issue in every society, the first and the most important socializing institution, where shelter and security are to be found when facing difficulties in life. Families exist in all cultures in different patterns, and in each culture they represent a major, even an essential, component in the life of individuals. The presence of the family is a prerequisite for the growth of children and youth, just as its absence is often the cause of a destabilizing void.

The family is recognized as an economic structure which intersects with the larger social and economic system.

Changes in the functions, responsibilities and structures of families during a process of development depend not only upon their background or their life cycle but also upon their interaction with new environment pressures, values and behaviours. It is these elements that shape families’ perceptions of their own resources and requirements and of the modifications they may make in their own value system and behaviour.

The way the family undergoes transformations in its formation, structure, functions and roles is an indicator of change in the structure of society as a whole.

Development programmes and activities usually adequately take into account the family as a unit or are intended to benefit families. An enormous number of development policies, however, affect this social group in both positive and negative ways. While development should mean an enrichment of life, in certain parts of the world the development process impinges negatively on families. 

The failure to take a family-focused approach to national and international co-operation for social development might have the consequence of losing a whole sphere of partners directly involved in the intricate day-to-day problems affecting society.

We therefore,

Urge that the wide range of problems confronting the family requires that families, rather than being ignored by the development process, should be taken into account by all who have responsibility for development activities and decisions.
Suggest that the first step in seeking to provide support for the family is to have as clear an understanding as possible of how the strengths of families are affected by the development process.
Underline that the situation of the ageing, children, disabled and other vulnerable groups should be addressed holistically by both Governments and the United Nations from the family perspective. The family institution has to be strengthened to cope with many destabilizing factors in society and the rapid social and economic changes of the social development and globalization process.
Recommend that caring for the elderly and family members, who are ill, should be shared and supported by the family and society as a whole. 

In accordance with Economic and Social Council resolution 1996/7 of 22 July 1996, the follow-up to the International Year of the Family has been an integral part of the agenda of the multiyear programme of work of the Commission for Social Development for a number of years. 

We hence, 

Hope that this tenth anniversary will re-emphasise the permanence of family issues in the work and programmes of the Commission for Social Development. And, most of all, that it will bring about a change in attitudes and policies, at the levels of Governments, the United Nations and Civil Society, towards the family and what it represents as the fundamental cornerstone of society. 

We also note, in this regard, that family-related provisions of the outcome of the United Nations Summits and Conferences of the 90’s and their follow-up process continue to provide good policy guidance. 

re:	Commission for Social Development Forty-First Session of 2003
	Agenda item 3 of the provisional agenda:
Follow-up to the World Summit for Social Development and the twenty- fourth special session of the General Assembly:
(b) Review of relevant United Nations plans and programmes of action pertaining to the situation of social groups:
(ii) Preparations for and observance of the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family

Statement submitted by the Colombian Confederation of NGOs, the International Council of Women, and the International Federation of Business and Professional Women, non-governmental organisations in general consultative status with the Economic and Social Council; the Associated Country Women of the World, the Baha’i International Community, the Foundation for the Rights of the Family, the International Confederation of Christian Family Movements, the International Council of  Jewish Women, the International Council of Psychologists, the International Council on Alcohol and Addictions, the International Federation for Family Development, the International Federation for Home Economics, the International Kolping Society, the Italian Centre of Solidarity, Pax Romana, the Service and Research Foundation of Asia, SOS Kinderdorf International and the World Movement of Mothers, non-governmental organisations in special consultative status with the Council.

In Preparation of the Tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family 2004
9th International Seminar
Vienna NGO Committee on the Family
in Cooperation with the
Austrian Federal Ministry for Social Security
and Generations
Compatibility of Family and Business Life
      Sunday, May 25th 2003 to Tuesday, May 27th 2003
UNITED NATIONS
Vienna International Centre (VIC)
1400 Vienna
              Austria

PROGRAMME
Sunday May25th, 2003:
19:30 	Reception sponsored by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Social Security and Generations Theatermuseum, Palais Lobkowitz, Lobkowitzplatz 2, 1010 Vienna 
Monday May26th, 2003
9:00	Registration 
10:00	Peter Crowley Chairperson of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, Welcome and Opening Statement
	Ursula Haubner, State Secretary,  Federal Ministry for Social Security and Generations 
		(requested)
	Nicole Julienne Elisha, Permanent Mission of Benin to the United Nations, New York

10.30	Chair: Peter Crowley and Rosa-Anna Weiss (Austrian Federal Ministry for Social Security and Generations)
	Prof. Dr. André Habisch, University of Eichstätt-Ingoldstadt, Germany
Compatibility of Family and Business Life as a Challenge to Today’s Family Politics
Questions from the floor and general discussion
11.30  Coffee Break
12.00	DI Uwe Reiner-Kolouch, Herold Business Data, Austria
		Compatibility as viewed from the Business Company
Questions from the floor and general  discussion
13:00	Lunch Break
14:30	Chair: Dr. Michael Schwarz and Rosa-Anna Weiss
Prof. Ron Prince, University of South Carolina, U.S.A.
The Benefit of Children as a Yardstick for Measures to Increase the Compatibility of Family and Business Life
Questions from the floor and general discussion
	15:30	Working Groups
	16:30	Reports by Working Groups to the Pleanary
	17:00	End of Session	
	19:30	Vienna City Hall (Ratskeller) Reception by the City of Vienna for Participants of the Seminar

Tuesday May 27th, 2003

10:00	Chair: Peter Crowley and Günter Danhel
Irene Slama, Office of the State Secretary, Austrian Federal Ministry for Social Security and 
Generations
Possibilities to Increase the Compatibility of Family and Business Life – Example: Austria
Questions from the floor and general discussion
11.00  Coffee Break
11:30	Prof. Masud Hogughi, University of Northumbria, Newcastle and Hull, England
		Multifaceted Concept of Parenting – Work-Life Balance
Questions from the floor and general discussion
12:30	Lunch Break
	14:00	Working Groups
	15:30	Report of Working Groups to the Plenary 
16:15	Peter Crowley  Chairperson of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, 
	Summary and Outlook to 2004
17:00	End of Seminar

Technical Information:

Registration: 	Participants are requested to register, at the latest, by  May 15th.2003 preferably by e-mail to famcom.vienna@utanet.at 
or by post to: 
Secretariat of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, Brunngasse 12, 
3100 St.Pölten, Austria or via 
Fax:  00 43 2742 35 27 185
In order to enter the Vienna International Centre (VIC) participants will need a valid passport and prior written registration.
Location:		The Seminar will be held in the United Nations, 
Vienna International Centre (VIC), Conference Room III
1400 Vienna.
Public transport:		The VIC can best be reached by the underground line U1.
	to Kagran ( Kaisermühlen / VIC Station)	
Participation fee:		 € 10,-- per participant, to be paid at the registration desk
	at Conference Room III in the VIC
Language: 		The Seminar will be held in English.
Accommodation: 	To be organised by participants
		For information see: www.wien.gv.at/english/touris.htm

FAMILY-RELATED NGO NEWS

Italian Center of Solidarity CeIS

AIDS AND THE FAMILY,
a programme of the ITALIAN CENTER OF SOLIDARITY(CeIS)
On December 1, 2002 (International Day against AIDS) the Social and Health Services of the city of Rome, awarded CeIS a gold medal in recognition of its achievements in the field of its "Home Assistance" programme for AIDS patients and their families.
One principle aim of this programme is the support and assistance to the person nursing an Aids patient. Even if new medicines have succeeded in improving the life-quality of the patient, the illness is still a source of great suffering. It is often a member of the family who assists the patient, often the mother, but it can be the wife, the husband or a friend. It is not an easy role, especially in the case of a long illness, and not everyone is able to carry it out without some external assistance. The patient tends to monopolize the person taking care of him, to blame him, to make him feel ineffective, and this is especially true when the patient has been for a period a stranger to the family or has abused drugs. A therapeutic support to the family, especially to the care-taker of the patient, becomes a necessity when deep conflicts emerge within the family, with charges and counter-charges and accusations as to the responsibility for what happened to the patient. This situation requires an integral therapeutic intervention directed to the family as a psychological unit, to the network of relationships with whom the patient interacts and individually to the patient himself. Many patients were former drug addicts and often the appearance of the illness provides an excuse to return to drugs abuse, thus provoking a second rupture within the family, which feels betrayed in its trust. In a few therapeutic sessions it has proven possible to insert the personal history of the patient in the context of the family history and awaken the family's awareness to its members repressed history. They were thus able to deal with the implications of sickness and death, they were psychologically strengthened and could acknowledge their real and deeper feelings.
A new strategic approach was thus developed for the assistance of Aids patients in their home. The therapist must become aware of the unspoken rules, prejudices, desires and expectations existing in the home and in the family. He must acquire sufficient distance so as not to become emotionally involved or suffer a burnout from exhaustion: on the other hand he must be careful not to be overactive thus robbing the patient of his autonomy. The recent improvements in medicinal treatment have bettered the life quality of the patient, who is now no longer facing the fear of imminent death, however in most cases a true life project for the future has not yet materialized. This is particularly true for former drug users. The therapist must now not only assist his patient in his primary needs, he must also help him to improve his life in his home, to be at his side in his new approaches to social contacts and to the world outside as well as in the learning of new work activities or artistic occupations. In other words he should assist him in re-establishing the principles of a "good life", as respect for the rules, development of his personal potentials as well as strengthening significant and deeper relationships. The patient must be educated to be the "actor" of his own life.
This is then the third stage of the assistance project. It began with the diagnosis of the situation, then came the elaboration of the assistance project and its actual application, which then should end with the disengagement from it. The patient is faced with having to plan his future , he has to take into account the limitations resulting from the illness, and above all he is confronted with his feelings of guilt for his past life-style, the cause of his illness, especially if he communicated his disease to his or her spouse or perhaps even to his children.  The psychological assistance must then initiate a process of reconciliation of the patient with himself, he must be assisted to recover his self-esteem, the reconciliation process must also include those from whom he was infected and those to whom he may have passed it on, the whole network of relationships within the family and between the family and society.
Summary is an article by Francisco Mele, psychotherapist, family consultant for CeIS.

International Kolping Society

Within its Women's Exchange Programme the African branch of the International Kolping Society hold a conference in September 2002 under the theme "Women: A Beacon of Hope in the Family". The topic titled "Women as models of a Christian Family" was prepared by the Ruanda Kolping Society with the aim to find out the sources of strength for a woman to be a model for a Christian Family and to show the challenges and hindrances in being this model. The hindrances could appear in the family, the church, the society as well as through the laws of governments. The present scenario of women as models both socially and economically was also worked out within this four-days conference. The Women came to the conclusion that in a nutshell, the role women play in the family and in the community at large cannot be overlooked. "Because women play multi-faceted roles in the rural sector as smallholder farmers, income earners, family caretakers, and Evangelists. Education, training, pa
id employment and full legal rights are some of the prerequisites to a women's economic, social and self-determination. These seem achievable as long as a girl is able to take the first step - going to School and acquiring education and skills with the support of all. When you educate a woman, you educate the whole nation."
Contact: Christine Leopold
Email: cleo@kolping.at

SERFAC

We will be starting at SERFAC a two year Post Graduate Diploma Course in Family Studies and Counselling. The Course is open to international students.
Language of Training will be in English - starting from July 2003 at SERFAC, Chennai India. 
For details write to Director, SERFAC, POST BOX No. 18, Tambaram, Chennai - 600045, India. 
email : serfac@md4.vsnl.net.in.
Dr. Sr. Catherine Bernard.

FAMILY STUDIES

Coursework:
The Family Studies course consists of three semesters and is completed within the eighteen months. Following the three semester will be six months internship in place / country of residence. The course includes core and elective coursework and the completion of a thesis (project) paper.
CORE CONCENTRATION AND COURSE CONTENTS
Course 1:	Introduction to the Study of Families:
Course 2:	Family Theory Development: A Systemic Perspective
Course 3:	Family in the Context of Globalisation:
Course 4: 	Family and Sustainable Development:
Course 5: 	Family Resources Management including Personal and Family Finances and Family Economics:
Course 6: 	Family and Religion:
Course 7: 	Family Planning and Bio-ethics: 
Course 8: 	Intergenerational Aspects of Family Living:
Course 9: 	Family and Social Policies:
Course 10: 	Family Mediation:
Course 11: 	Family Life Education Methods:
Course 12: 	Research Methods in Family Studies – Quantative Research Methods:
Graduation:
Graduation and award of The Diploma “Professional Family Life Educator” will be awarded to students who successfully complete the entire course with an average of B+ grade.
Faculty for the Course:
The course’s academic faculty members will be comprised of visiting Indian and International faculty members. Details of the faculty will be available in a subsequent brochure.
For a detailed programme, please contact the 
Director, Dr. Sr. Catherine Bernard.
SERFAC , POST BOX No. 18, Tambaram,
Chennai - 600045, India. 
email : serfac@md4.vsnl.net.in.

ICYO  - Youth Information newsletter 
Indian Committee of Youth Organizations 

Special Issue on AYNHD - ICYO National Youth Workshop on Human Rights Education March 2003 
ICYO is a Non-Governmental Development Youth Network Organization in India Final Preparation for 

AYNHD ICYO 
NATINAL YOUTH WORKSHOP ON HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION 
The India Committee of Youth Organizations (ICYO) is now in final stage of preparation to host the National Youth workshop on Human Rights Education. The workshop will be held from 27 - 29 March 2003 in New Delhi, India.
The Workshop will provide the opportunity to young people themselves to discuss the issues most affecting the human rights of youth and children. Said Mr. Ravi Narayan, Secretary General, ICYO. He added _This event also start process to create the atmosphere where youth can grow without fear, stigma and discrimination.
The organizer is expecting participants from fourteen India states, these includes Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Kerala, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, New Delhi, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
The Asia Youth Network for Human Development (AYNHD) was established during United Nations's World conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related intolerance, WCAR held in Durban in 2001, and further strengthen and structured in 2002 when the Network organized the Regional Youth Human Development Rights Education Workshop in Bangkok, Thailand from 28 July -1 August 2003.

This ICYO Workshop is one of event to carry on the flame of WCAR and Bangkok event. ICYO extended invitation to eminent personalities/expert to be the resource persons /guest speakers.
The special issue of Youth Information will release the update of the Workshop as and when happened.
Indian Committee of Youth Organizations (ICYO) publishes the Youth Information 
1797-C, Kotla, New Delhi 110 003 India. 
Phone:  91 11 24624776, 91 11 26183978, 9811729093  E-mail:  icyo@icyo-india.org  

RECENT AND FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Steps forward for families: research, practice and policy, Melbourne, Vic 12-14 February 2003

The 8th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference will feature the presentation and discussion of findings of the Institute's own studies, along with work from a wide range of researchers, government bodies, service providers and community organisations. 
Further information: http://www.aifs.gov.au/institute/afrc2003/index.htm
AIFS8 Conference Office, The Meeting Planners, 91-97 Islington Street, Collingwood, Victoria 3066 Australia, Email: aifs@meetingplanners.com.au

Family Policy Conference 2003 Budapest, Hungary 21 to 24 March 2003 

Make family policy a reality 
Conference of the European Region of WFO with non-governmental family organisations of Central and Eastern Europe in the preparation process for the 10th anniversary of the International Year of the Family 1994
General Assembly of the European Region of WFO
Contact: Europäisches Regionalbüro, Celsiusstr. 112, D-53125 Bonn, Tel.:
0049-228-258464, Fax: 0049-228-254179, e-mail: m.hochwald@familia.de

Families and Health Care - Public Policy and Education Conference 
Washington, DC 10-11 April 2003

The National Council on Family Relations has partnered with the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences to sponsor this dialogue on families and health care.
Further information: Laura Eiklenborg - Tel: 763 781 9331 x.17. Email: laura@ncfr.org.

International Conference Centre Geneva, Switzerland April 14 – 17, 2003
A World of Change – A World in Crisis
The Counsellor and Social Responsibility Conference
International Association for Counselling 
(Incorporating the International Round Table for the Advancement of Counselling) 
At the beginning of the third millennium, the world in which we live is changing at an ever increasing pace with ongoing and emerging crises threatening the well being of individuals, families, and societies everywhere. Children, adolescents, and adults are continually faced with challenges that adversely affect their ability to be successful in the personal, family, educational, career, and social aspects of their lives.  The sources of these challenges are multiple, including individual perceptions and mental health concerns, changing environmental opportunities, and systemic cultural mores that lead to discriminatory practices.  Counsellors are in a unique position to help individuals and groups faced with such adversity.  One purpose of this conference is to provide an opportunity to consider these issues within the context of the role of the counsellor in helping individuals deal with the psychosocial aspects of the difficult circumstances in which they find themselves.
Increasingly, it is recognized that a range of global, regional, and cultural issues are having a strong impact on the lives of people of all ages.  Counsellors are in a unique position to see these issues from the perspective of how they influence the lives of individuals and groups.  A second purpose of this conference is to provide an opportunity to consider the role of the counsellor in informing policy makers and broader social environments regarding systemic issues that are impeding the lives of increasing numbers of people.
Contact:
Courtland C. Lee, Ph.D., Counselor Education Program
Department of Counseling and Personnel Services
3214 Benjamin Building, University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742, USA
Telephone: 301-405-8904; Fax: 301-405-9995
Email: cl191@umail.umd.edu

4th International Research Conference on Social Security, 5-7 May 2003,Antwerp, Belgium

Organised as part of the International Social Security Association's research program, this conference will focus on the new challenges generated by a 'long life society' , with special emphasis on new roles for families in a multi-generational and ageing society; on reassessing work and retirement in a long life society; on adapting social security schemes to the challenges of a long life society; and on the effects of migration in an ageing society. Objectives are to inform and enlighten the current policy debate on major issues facing social security as a result of demographic changes; to inform decision makers about recent research findings and the experiences derived from innovative policies and programs; and to explore the direction that research should take in order to contribute to the overall improvement of social protection. Papers are invited, submit online by 1 September 2002.
Further information: International Social Security Association (ISSA), Case postale 1, CH-1211 Geneva 22, Switzerland. Fax: +41 22 799 8509. E-mail: issaRC@ilo.org. Web: http://www.issa.int/engl/homef.htm

The International Day of Families 15 May 2003

"Preparations for the observance of the Tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004"
On 15 May 2003, the ninth year anniversary celebration of the International Day of Families will be observed.  Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 47/237 of 20 September 1993, this annual observance reflects the importance, which the international community attaches to families as basic units of society as well as its concern regarding their situation around the world. The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families as well as to promote appropriate action.  The Day can become a powerful mobilizing factor on behalf of families in all countries, which avail themselves of this opportunity and demonstrate support of family issues appropriate to each society. 
 The international theme for 2003 is: 
“Preparations for the observance of the Tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004”.

IFSW European Seminar 26 - 29 May 2003

The Role of Social Work in Future Europe
The IFSW European Seminar 2003 aims at discussing the role of social workers in the new millennium, discussing differences and similarities between countries, inspire social workers to seek new directions and focus on the social security system and the fight against social exclusion. The seminar is arranged by the National Federation of Social Educators in Denmark, the Danish Union of Clerical Employees Local Government (HK) and the Danish Association of Social Workers in cooperation with the social educators in Europe.
Conference Secretariat:
European Seminar Copenhagen 2003
HK/Kommunal, Weidekampsgade 8, P O Box 470, DK-0900 Copenhagen C, DENMARK
Tel: (44) 33 30 43 43 Fax: (44) 33 30 44 49
E-mail: info@socialwork2003.dk
Website: www.socialwork2003.dk

International Family Strengths Conference 13-15 June 2003

Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
Sponsored by the South China Normal University, the International Family Strengths Consortium/University of Nebraska, and Webster University, Missouri, USA. The objective of this conference is to unite professionals and laypersons interested in helping to strengthen families around the world. Proposals are invited, by Feb 15th, 2003.
Further information: Email Nancy Swarts at: nswarts2@unl.edu 

The Family in the Health System - Seminar 2003 20-22 June 2003

The Annual Seminar 2003 of the European Observatory on the Social Situation, Demography and Family focuses on the role of the family in the health system. Is the family a cost-raising or cost-reducing factor? Access to the health system, financial sustainability, health resources and health risks, and the family as health-care agent are other items on the agenda. The Seminar will be held in Tutzing (Germany) on 20-22 June 2003. 
Contact person:
Sylvia Trnka, Co-ordinator of the European Observatory at the ÖIF
Phone: +43-1-535 14 54-26, e-mail: sylvia.trnka@oif.ac.at

World Congress on Family Violence, Praha, Czech Republic 21-26 June 2003

For more information: Website: www.wcfv.org
The WCFV program will be organized by the Scientific Program Committees on Child Abuse, on Spouse/Partner Abuse and on Elder Abuse in accordance with submitted abstract proposals that assure a comprehensive range of topics in plenary sessions, mini-plenary panels, round-tables, debates, and concurrent presentations and poster sessions.
Special emphasis will be given by the Committees to innovative solutions, best practices and research findings on cross-disciplinary themes, target groups, determinants, spThe National Council on Child Abuse and Family Violence (NCCAFV) serves as the Sponsor and Secretariat for the World Congress on Family Violence (WCFV) and as Secretariat for the International Network on Family Violence (INFV) organized in 1998 at the first WCFV in Singapore. NCCAFV was founded in 1984 as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit (and nongovernmental) organization in the United States. (http://www.nccafv.org/) 
World Congress on Family Violence
1025 Connecticut Avenue NW   Suite 1012 
Washington, DC 20036  USA 
Phone: 202-429-6695 
FAX: 831-655-3930 
Email: WCFV@aol.com 

Seminar: Women, Work and Family – Is the Czech Republic Different? 28 June-27 July 2003

This seminar will examine the interesting sources of gender equality and inequality in the Czech Republic (including the important role of social policies) and will feature talks by several Czech faculty. The Seminar, a part of the University of New Orleans Prague Summer Seminars, is available to both students and faculty and can be taken for credit or on a non-credit basis.
Place: Prague, Czech Republic
Date: 28 June - 27 July 2003
Conference language: English
Contact: E-mail: iziegler@uno.edu or praabe@uno.edu
Web: http://www.uno.edu/prague/photo 

Conference: 'Living and Shaping the Family': 17-18 July 2003

The 3rd conference for family psychology is dedicated to the topic "Living and Shaping the Family". In keeping with this motto, current papers from basic and applied research will be presented dealing, firstly, with internal and external family conditions and effects of living together in relationships and families in various stages of life and contexts, and secondly, with family-specific psychological approaches to provide help and orientation for couples and families in the shaping of their relationships and living conditions.
Place: Munich (Germany)
Date: 17 - 18 July 2003
Conference language: German
Contact: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Psychologie Leopoldstrasse 13 (Pf. 37), D-80802 München Prof. Dr. Klaus A. Schneewind e-mail: schneewind@psy.uni-muenchen.de

International Council on Alcohol and Addictions Toronto 19-24 October 2003

The First International Round Table on Research, Policy, Prevention and Intervention in the Addictions. 
The International Council on Alcohol and Addictions is pleased to announce its 46th International Conference on the Prevention and Treatment of Dependencies to be held October 19th-24th in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
This unique, landmark event will be of special interest to scientists, practitioners, scholars, educators, Government officials, members of the police as well as the judiciary. It is designed to inform, to challenge and to build capacity. The conference will feature the exciting and innovative 1st International Round Table on Reserch, Policy, Prevention and Intervention. In the plenary session world famous speakers accompanied by panels of internationally renowned experts will explore, discuss and debate the critical issues surrounding research, policy making, prevention, treatment and criminal justice in the Addictions. Be informed and inspired by leading scholars who will in concurrent major sessions focus attention and applications of each plenary topic to the issues of alcohol, drugs, gambling and tobacco. To round out this stimulating program a wide range of quality presentations representing the best of ICAAs twenty professional sections will be offered each day. This will be a conference that you just can't afford to miss.
Delegates need to network will not be overlooked either. A dedicated delegates lounge at the conference site will ensure easy acces to other delegates daily, while an exciting social program will ensure that all participants will enjoy themselves after a hard days work. We have an outstanding social program planned including the option of visiting one of the seven wonders of the world, the magnificent Niagra Falls.
The venue of the conference is Toronto's preeminent Westin Prince Hotel, situated on fifteen acres of lush private grounds, featuring walking trails, outdoor recreation and gardens. This deluxe property offers a full health club facility, fine dinning and luxurious accommodations. All for a surprisingly modest price.
Mark your calendars, pass the information on to others who may be interested, be part of this exciting event. You will be challenged, you will be informed, and you will leave feeling enriched.
Like all good things registration for this conference is limited and will be on a first come first served basis. Do not be disappointed; make your interest known NOW by e-mailing the ICAA secretariat at "secretariat@icaa.ch" or by writing to: ICAA secretariat, Case Postale 189, 1001 Lausanne, Switzerland.
The organizers look forward to welcoming you all in person to beautiful Canada and to this very special event. October 19th-24th, 2003 will be dates long remembered by thos who are going to be with us. We hope that we can count you among them.
ICAA Secretariat.
Registration Form
Please return to:
Case Postale 189, 1001 Lausanne, Switzerland.
Tel: +4121 320 9865. Fax: +4121 320 9817.
E-mail: secretariat@icaa.ch

PUBLICATIONS

Studies in Family Planning
Pregnancy Termination among South African Adolescents 

Christine A. Varga is Chief Research Specialist, Program on Child, Youth, and Family Development, Human Sciences Research Council, Durban, South Africa. E-mail: cvarga@hsrc.ac.za. 
Although African adolescents’ risk of undergoing abortion and of related health complications is well-documented, little is known about the procedure’s prominence in their lives and the pathways that lead to their reliance upon it. This study investigates abortion dynamics among male and female Zulu adolescents in KwaZulu/Natal, South Africa. It explores the role of abortion in young people’s sexual and reproductive experience, its acceptability, the reasons and likelihood of young people’s choosing abortion, and the commonly used methods of pregnancy termination. The study, a rural–urban comparison using focus-group discussions, narrative workshops, and role playing, involved surveys and in-depth interviews. Factors contributing to the commonplace nature of backstreet procedures among adolescents include: social stigma, inadequate knowledge of the legal status of abortion, and a complex group decision making process. Young people invoke “relative moralities” concerning adolescent abortion, recognizing and condoning it on a context-specific basis. Age, gender, and geographic differences are examined. The methodological triangulation used offers the opportunity for alternative theoretical and methodological approaches to research on abortion-related issues. (STUDIES IN FAMILY PLANNING 2002; 33[4]: 283–298) 

FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY
INTRODUCTION
The Future of Family Planning Programs 
John C. Caldwell is Emeritus Professor of Demography, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra. E-mail: jack.caldwell@anu.edu.au. James F. Phillips is Senior Associate, Research Division, The Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017. Barkat-e-Khuda is Associate Director and Head, Policy and Planning, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh. 
National family planning programs have been an important instrument in accelerating global fertility decline and in restricting ultimate world population to a level probably below ten billion. They began to come into being after 1950 and will probably go out of existence in most of the world's regions by 2050. The archetypal programs were instituted in Asia and North Africa. The end of the twentieth century is an appropriate half-way mark at which to evaluate the twentieth-century programs and to assess what changes in them will be needed for the twenty-first century. Some changes are necessary because dramatic events have occurred: (1) long-term replacement-level fertility has been attained in most of East Asia and some of Southeast Asia, and accordingly, some programs there are being phased out; (2) mainland South Asian fertility has been slower to decline; (3) international donor funding is diminishing and may not be significant during much of the twenty-first century; (4) the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development held in Cairo called for a radical change in programs away from demographic aims and toward reproductive health and the improvement of the situation of women; and (5) the future family planning frontier will be sub-Saharan Africa, for which radically new types of programs may have to be developed. These issues were discussed in January 2000 at a conference held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A selection of contributions to the conference is published here. This article provides an overview of the issues based partly on this selection and partly on the discussions that took place at the conference. (STUDIES IN FAMILY PLANNING 2002; 33[1]: 1–10) 

Youth and Violence: Students Speak Out for a More Civil Society
Ellen Galinsky and Kimberlee Salmond, Families and Work Institute 2002 

"Youth and Violence: Students Speak Out for a More Civil Society," a new study from Families and Work Institute and The Colorado Trust with additional support from the Open Society Institute, is the first nationally representative survey to directly ask young people what they would do to stop the violence in any aspect of their lives. The study, part of FWI’s “Ask the Children” series, investigates emotional as well as physical violence, and includes the voices of young people in exploring causes and solutions.
Contact:

Families and Work Institute
267 Fifth Ave., Floor 2
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 465-2044
Fax: (212) 465-8637

You may also contact us by e-mail. 
For questions about ordering our publications, please contact Marline Lambert at mlambert@familiesandwork.org. 
For questions about our speaking program, please contact Diane Moore at dmoore@familiesandwork.org.

Family Relations

ISSN 0197-6664 Quarterly
Family Relations publishes applied articles that are original, innovative and interdisciplinary and that focus on diverse families and family issues. Audiences include family life educators in academic and community settings, researchers with an applied or evaluation focus, family practitioners who utilize prevention or therapeutic models and techniques, and family policy specialists. Examples of appropriate articles include those dealing with applied research, educational philosophies or practices, syntheses of substantive areas, program evaluations, and curriculum development and assessment. Articles should be conceived and written with the needs of practitioners in mind.
Volume 52 Number 1 2003

Journal of Marriage and Family

ISSN 0022-2445 Quarterly
The Journal of Marriage and Family has been the leading research journal in the family field for 60 years. It features original research and theory, research interpretation and reviews, critical discussion concerning all aspects of marriage and the family, and book reviews.
Volume 65 Number 1 2003
Contact:
National Council on Family Relations
Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies
PO Box 7055
Lawrence, KS 66044-7055, USA
Telephone: (785) 843-1235
Fax: (785) 843-1274
e-mail: ncfr@allenpress.com 

YATRA, a quarterly newsletter is also published by SERFAC, which updates on the recent developments and information in the field of Marriage and Family, as well as Social development / issues that have a bearing on the Family
SERFAC publishes A Journal on Marriage and Family, which is biannual and carries research and scholastic articles in the area of marriage and family. 
For subscription and other enquiries, please write to the THE DIRECTOR, SERFAC, P O BOX 18, TAMBARAM WEST, CHENNAI - 600 045 , INDIA

SERFAC is an International Non-Governmental Pro-Life and Pro-Family Organisation.
SERFAC is registered in Tamil Nadu under the Society's Registration Act of 1975.
SERFAC is also a member of the Vienna based NGO Committee for the Family.
SERFAC was recognised by the United Nation's Committee on the Family for its outstanding work on Family during the International Year of the Family in 1994.
Inaugurated on November 1, 1986 SERFAC's CENTER FOR FAMILY VALUES was dedicated to the International Year of the Family on February 9, 1995.
SERFAC was granted SPECIAL Consultative Status to the UNITED NATIONS - Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1998.

INTRODUCING

What is the European Observatory on the Social Situation, Demography and Family?

The European Observatory on the Social Situation, Demography and Family is a multi-disciplinary network of independent experts established upon the request of the European Commission.
As its main tasks, the Observatory
•	monitors political developments in Europe which have an impact on the social situation, demography and family;
•	analyses political activities and the impact of family policies;
•	monitors demographic, socio-economic and political changes which have an impact on families;
•	stimulates academic debate on social, demographic and family issues as well as on related policies;
•	organises annual seminars of the Observatory experts and invited speakers for a specialised audience. The Annual Seminar 2002 focuses on immigration and family. The Milan Seminar in 2001 analysed family forms and the young generation in Europe. In 2000, fertility was on the agenda of the Seminar held in Seville. The 2003 Seminar will be dedicated to a health topic;
•	organises two closed meetings per year for the Observatory members. 

The European Observatory has a National Expert in each EU Member State. These National Experts monitor and report on developments regarding the social situation, demography and family in the light of the Observatory’s annual research focus. The monitoring reports are published on the Observatory’s website.
The Austrian Institute for Family Studies (ÖIF) in Vienna (Austria) has co-ordinated the Observatory since 1998. It is headed is Brigitte Cizek, Managing Director of the ÖIF, who also chairs the ÖIF-based Co-ordination Team. The Observatory’s work is documented on its website. Every other month, the Observatory publishes sdf-puzzle, an electronic newsletter offering scientific contributions on selected key topics. Information on conferences, other events and topical family issues is circulated via the biweekly newsletter puzzleweise.
 
The European Observatory on the Social Situation, Demography and Family was established by the European Commission in 1989, on the basis of the conclusions of the Council of Ministers responsible for Family Affairs meeting within the Council on 29 September 1989 as well as on the basis of Communication COM (89)363final on Family Policies adopted by the Commission.
 
Originally established as European Observatory on National Family Policies, the Observatory’s name was subsequently changed to European Observatory on Family Matters. The name was amended to its current version – European Observatory on the Social Situation, Demography and Family – in August 2001.
Contact person:
Sylvia Trnka, Co-ordinator of the European Observatory at the ÖIF
Phone: +43-1-535 14 54-26, e-mail: sylvia.trnka@oif.ac.at
To order the newsletters sdf-puzzle and puzzleweise write to: puzzle@oif.ac.at

NEWS FROM THE UNITED NATIONS

Commission for Social Development	SOC/4627
Forty-first Session	21 February 2003
10th Meeting (PM)

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION CONCLUDES FORTY-FIRST SESSION WITH ACTION ON TEXTS
RELATED TO COOPERATION, YOUTH, DISABLED, AGEING AND FAMILY

Also Elects Bureau for Forty-Second Session

	The Commission for Social Development concluded its forty-first session this afternoon with the adoption, without a vote, of five texts on national and international cooperation for social development, youth, persons with disabilities, ageing and the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004.

A functional body of the Economic and Social Council, the Commission meets annually to discuss specific themes related to social development.  The 46-member Commission is the key United Nations body for the implementation of the outcome of the 1995 World Summit for Social Development.  This year’s priority theme was national and international cooperation for social development 

The text on the implementation of the social objectives of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), would have the Economic and Social Council, cognizant of the link between the priorities of NEPAD and the Millennium Declaration, recommend that the Commission continue to give due prominence to the social dimensions of NEPAD in its future priority themes.

The text would also have the Council call on the Secretary-General, in his efforts to harmonize bilateral initiatives on Africa, to ensure the coordination of the work of the various United Nations bodies.  The Council would also stress the vital role of the United Nations in assisting Member States achieve the development objectives and targets of the Millennium Declaration and to mainstream them in United Nations development activities.

A text on comprehensive and integral international convention to promote and protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, would have the Economic and Social Council request the Commission to continue to contribute to the process of a comprehensive and integral international convention to promote and protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

	Further to the same text, the Council would also invite bodies, organs and entities of the United Nations system, as well as non-governmental organizations, national disability and human rights institutions and independent experts, to make available to the Ad Hoc Committee on the convention, suggestions and possible elements to be considered in proposals for a convention.

Also this afternoon, the Commission adopted texts on the modalities for the review and appraisal of the 2002 Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, policies and programmes involving youth, and preparations for the observance of the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004.

In other action, the Commission adopted its report for the current session, which was introduced by Commission Vice-Chairperson and Rapporteur Nicole Elisha (Benin).  The Commission also adopted its provisional agenda for the forty-second session.

Prior to adopting the Commission’s agreed conclusions, the Vice-Chairman of the Commission, Alejandra Ayuso (Argentina), speaking in her capacity as facilitator during the negotiations, said the informal text before the Commission reflected the views of all delegations.  Conclusions of the session stressed that the issue of cooperation -- both at the national and international levels -– was centred on the concept of partnership.  The Commission, in its conclusions, had also highlighted the need to strengthen national capabilities -- particularly in developing countries -- in order to advance the social development process.  Aspects concerning a people-centred approach, the social dimension of reform and structural adjustment processes, and resources mobilization for social development were also highlighted.

	The representatives of Morocco (speaking on behalf of the “Group of 77” developing countries and China), Greece, United States and Israel thanked the Vice-Chairman and Facilitator for her constructive leadership during the negotiations and said that the agreed conclusions reflected the spirit of cooperation needed and appreciated within the social development process.  The representative of Israel did, however, regret the lack of emphasis in the text on the importance of factors such as tolerance.

In addition, the Commission took note of the report of the Secretary-General on preparations for the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004, and a note by the Secretary transmitting the report of the Board of the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development.

	In closing, Commission Vice-Chairman Paloma Duran (Spain) thanked all member States for their active involvement and contribution to the session.  The Commission had, this year, placed special focus on the importance of cooperation and partnerships in the process of social development.  The suggestions and the views expressed by delegations and reflected throughout the session would guide the entire United Nations in its social development agenda.

Following the closing of the session, the Commission held a short organizational meeting to elect its bureau for the next session.  Jean-Jacques Elmiger (Switzerland) was elected as Chairman, and Ivana Grollova (Czech Republic) and Darmansjah Djumala (Indonesia) were elected as two of the four vice-chairmen for the next session.  The election of the remaining two vice-chairmen from the African States and the Latin American and Caribbean States was postponed.  

	Summary of Texts

	A draft resolution on policies and programmes involving youth (document E/CN.5/2003/L.4) would have the Economic and Social Council call on all States, United Nations bodies, and the intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations concerned, in particular youth organizations, to make every possible effort towards the implementation of the Programme of Action, aiming at cross-sectoral youth policies by integrating a youth perspective into all planning and decision-making processes relevant to youth. 

The text would also have the Council invite the General Assembly to consider devoting, at its sixtieth session in 2005, two plenary meetings to reviewing the situation of youth and achievements made in the implementation of the Programme of Action 10 years after its adoption.

Before the Commission there was also a draft resolution on a comprehensive and integral international convention to promote and protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities (document E/CN.5/2003/L.5/Rev.1), which would have the Council request the Commission for Social Development to continue to contribute to the process established by General Assembly 56/168 on a comprehensive and integral international convention to promote and protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, by providing its views regarding social development of persons with disabilities.

	Further to the same text, the Economic and Social Council would also invite bodies, organs and entities of the United Nations system, within their respective mandates, as well as non-governmental organizations, national disability and human rights institutions and independent experts with an interest in the matter, to make available to the Ad Hoc Committee suggestions and possible elements to be considered in proposals for a convention.

By the terms of a draft resolution on national and international cooperation for social development:  implementation of the social objectives of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) (document E/CN.5/2003/L.6/Rev.1), the Economic and Social Council, cognizant of the link between the priorities of the New Partnership and the Millennium Declaration, would recommend that the Commission continue to give due prominence to the social dimensions of NEPAD in its future priority themes.

The draft would also have the Council call upon the Secretary-General, in his efforts to harmonize bilateral initiatives on Africa, to ensure the coordination of the work of the various United Nations bodies.  It would also stress the vital role of the United Nations in assisting Member States achieve the development objectives and targets of the Millennium Declaration and to mainstream them in United Nations development activities.

	Also according to the text, the Council would urge the international community and the United Nations system to organize support for African countries in accordance with the principles, objectives and priorities of the Partnership.  The international community would be invited to ensure that their support for Africa is compatible with NEPAD’s principles.  

	According to the terms of the draft resolution on modalities for review and appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, 2002, (document E/CN.5/2003/L.7), the Council would invite all actors at all levels, as appropriate, to participate in the implementation of and follow-up to the Madrid Plan of Action.  It would also invite the United Nations system to consider development, the private sector also had an important role.  Also highlighted during the general debate was the need for capacity-building with regard to international development and assistance.  The link between social development and economic growth was also discussed, with many speakers stressing the need to simultaneously address both issues.

Under the agenda item on the review of United Nations plans and programmes pertaining to the situation of particular social groups, the Commission reviewed the global situation of youth, preparations for the observance of the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004, the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons, and the review of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing.

Background on Commission

	The Commission is a functional body of the Economic and Social Council, whose 46 members are elected for four-year terms.  The mandate and the membership of the Commission were expanded following the 1995 World Summit for Social Development held in Copenhagen.  Since then, the Commission has been the key United Nations body in charge of follow-up and implementation of the Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action.

	The Chairman of the Commission at its forty-first session is Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury (Bangladesh).  Other members of the bureau are Ivana Grollova (Czech Republic), Alejandra Marta Ayuso (Argentina), Nicole J. Elisha (Benin) and Paloma Duran (Spain).

	The current members of the Commission are:  Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Bulgaria, China, Comoros, Croatia, Czech Republic, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Peru, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, South Africa, Spain, Sudan, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Republic of Tanzania, United States and  Viet Nam.

Statement to the 41st Session
of the Commission for Social 
Development, (10-21 Feb. 2003)
by Peter Crowley, Chairperson,
Vienna NGO Committee on the Family,
Representative of the International
Council on Alcohol and Addictions (ICAA)

Mr Chairman,

Thank you for giving me the floor to speak briefly on behalf of the International Council on Alcohol and Addictions (ICAA) and other members of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family - of which I am the Chairperson. ICAA is one of the 65 member organisations of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, which was founded in 1985 and serves a world-wide network of family-oriented organisations, who come from NGOs, research and university institutions. 

May I respectfully draw your attention to the joint INGO Statement, Conference document E/CN.5/2003/NGO/5 prepared by The Vienna NGO Committee on the Family and signed by 18 INGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC. 

The family is a sensitive issue in every society, the first and most important socializing institution, where shelter and security are to be found when facing the demands of daily life. Families exist in all cultures in different patterns, and in each culture they represent an essential, component in the life of individuals. The presence of the family at the cornerstone of society is a prerequisite for the development of children and youth, just as its absence is often the cause of a destabilizing void. 

The family is further recognized as an economic structure which intersects with the larger social and economic system. The roles of families are partly private and partly public in their interaction with demographic, cultural, political, legal and economic factors. The failure to take a family-focused approach to national and international co-operation for social development could have the consequence of losing a whole sphere of partners directly involved in the intricate day-to-day challenges confronting society.
We trust that the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004 will re-emphasise the permanence of family issues in the work and programmes of the Commission for Social Development. 
We welcome the active and supportive role the United Nations is playing in facilitating the exchange of information by NGOs in the preparations for 2004. 

The Vienna NGO Committee on the Family and the Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations (DESA) have agreed to set up an Interactive-Internet-Forum, at www.10yearsIYF.org with the support of international NGOs, which regard themselves as family-oriented, in all or in parts of their aims, and which are in consultative status with ECOSOC. The goal is to prepare a report on (a) past and present projects carried out for families since 1994 by each international NGO: and (b) plans of each international NGO to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004. 

Categories will be formed according to the substantive issues addressed by the INGOs, such as education, health promotion, and HIV/Aids. Each participating organisation can make use of an interactive online conference and discussion board offering a medium for immediate interchange. Information specific to each of the participating organisations, can be updated by each organisation itself. (cf. Report of the Secretary-General to the 41st session of the Commission for Social Development). 

This will enable the implementation of a study, under the chairmanship of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, to document the positive contributions of civil society to the well-being of families since IYF in 1994. The results of this study, which is being funded, among others, by donations from the private sector, are to be presented to a plenary meeting of the General Assembly of the United Nations  in 2004 (cf. Report of the Secretary-General to the General Assembly - A/57/139, 2002). This Mr. Chairman, will be a permanent world-wide institution-building project reaching beyond 2004 and will further underline the partnership role civil society plays with governments and international organisations in the search for solutions and strategies to deal with the process of social development.

A similarly structured simultaneous study with family-oriented organisations at the national, local and grass-roots levels, in Eastern African and in Central and Eastern European Countries is also being carried out, under the Chairmanship of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family, harnessing the technology of the world-wide-web, to highlight the 10th Anniversary of IYF in 2004.

Thank you Mr Chairman

INFORMATION NOTE on the

Observance of the International Day of Families 15 May 2003

"Preparations for the Tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004"

The International Day of Families is being observed for the ninth time on 15 May 2003. Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 47/237 of 20 September 1993, this annual observance reflects the importance, which the international community attaches to families regarding their situation around the world.
The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families as basic units of society as well as to promote appropriate action. The Day can become a powerful mobilizing factor on behalf of families in all countries, which avail themselves of this opportunity and demonstrate support of family issues appropriate to each society. The 2003 

observance of the International Day of Families also offers a valuable opportunity for families to demonstrate their solidarity in the quest for better standards of life. The international theme for 2003 is "Preparations for the Tenth Anniversary of the International Year of the Family in 2004”.
Governments,non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, religious groups and individuals can promote a better understanding of the functions and problems, strengths and needs of families by organizing observances of the International Day of Families. The Day also provides an opportunity to increase knowledge of the economic, cultural, social and demographic processes affecting families. The Programme on the Family of the Division for Social Policy and Development, within the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, is the focal point for family matters in the United Nations system. As such, it is offering the following suggestions for the observance of the Day.

Observing the Day at the National Level
In preparing for the Day, Governments may wish to use 15 May as an occasion to initiate family-oriented projects, entry into force of family legislation or starting discussion on family policies in the country (special conferences, cultural festivals, special announcements and other similar events). The support and active involvement of the media in its programme is central to the success of the Day. Because the Day is a very time-limited event, it lends itself well to an intensive and focused media campaign. The official logo for the International Year of the Family has become a permanent fixture of the International Day of Families, and represents a useful instrument for such action. The active engagement of the non-governmental organizations is instrumental in the success of the Day's observance. For the International Day of Families in 2003 and successive Days, it is vital that non-governmental organizations once again fully mobilize their invaluable substantive expertise, organizational potential, grass-root outreach as well as human and material resources. Governments should seek the active partnership of non-governmental organizations and provide necessary support for the activities of the voluntary sector. Partnerships among public, private and volunteer organizations that serve families should be encouraged.

Suggestions for observing the Day at the Local Level
Drawing on past experiences, the following are some examples of the kinds of programmes, which could be undertaken for the Day's observance:
Family and community fora and workshops, to explore issues and offer options for strengthening families.
Fora can also provide information on family support services, such as counselling, financial assistance, advisory and information services.
Special events in educational settings such as parent/teacher gatherings or student activities can highlight families.
Special family fares or free family tickets on public transportation and other incentives to give additional emphasis to the Day and to facilitate the involvement of families.
Free entrance for families to museums, exhibitions, concerts and other cultural attractions. Official proclamations of the Day by mayors and other local authorities.

Proclamations of "Family Week".
Production of documentary films or promotional vignettes on families to be shown on national and local television stations.
Arranging special exhibitions of publications, photographs, children's drawings, posters and other materials on families.
Launching family-related publications.
Coverage of the Day's events by the news media, including television, radio and newspapers. The latter could also carry feature articles and special supplements on the Day, as well as a series on family issues.
Organization of essay competitions on the family.
Press conferences by research institutions and others concerned with family issues can raise
public awareness of priority concerns.
For further inquiries please contact:
Mr. Amr Ghaleb
Focal Point
Programme on the Family
Division for Social Policy and Development
United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Tel: 212-963-3238
Fax: 212-963-3062
E-mail: ghaleb@un.org
Two United Nations Plaza, Rm. DC2-1302
New York, NY 10017

Projects of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family are supported by:

•	Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Bäuerinnen in Niederösterreich
•	Austrian Federal Government 
•	Bank Austria
•	Berndorf Gruppe
•	Creditanstalt Bankverein
•	European Commission
•	Government of Germany
•	Government of Liechtenstein
•	Government of Luxembourg
•	Government of Spain, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands
•	INGOs
•	Niederösterreichische Landesregierung
•	Niederösterreichische Versicherungs AG
•	OMV
•	Shell Austria AG
•	Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment AG
•	Siemens
•	Rotary International
•	United Nations Trust Fund on Family Activities

'Families International' an information-sharing bulletin published by:
Vienna NGO Committee on the Family:
Brunngasse 12/2, A-3100 St. Pölten, Austria, Fax: 43-2742-35 27 18-5, 
e-mail: famcom.vienna@utanet.at, Web: http://www.viennafamilycommittee.org

Printed by in-house duplication. The views published do not necessarily
reflect the views of the members of the Vienna NGO Committee on the Family. 

Editors: Editorial Committee: Peter Crowley, Eva Matt, Winston Sims.
Co-Editors: Eva Matt, Winston Sims.
Layout: Sylvia Harling