CONAPO and the National Population Policy Law
Poblacion 1995) 1995(3): 3
1995
PMID: 12158267 Document Number: 294164
In the 15 years of its existence, Peru's Consejo Nacional de Poblacion (CONAPO) has consolidated efforts begun in 1964 with creation of the Center for Studies of Population and Development, which promoted research and national awareness of population themes. In 1976, the Guidelines for Population Policy were formulated to provide orientation for a diagnosis of Peru's sociodemographic situation and its causes, and recommendations for future action. CONAPO was created in 1980 to coordinate and evaluate public sector actions and programs for population and to promote private sector activities. The National Population Policy Law was approved and promulgated in early 1985. The law reflects an integrated vision of the population problem, touching all essential aspects related to the family, education, employment, development, and the environment. Among achievements of Peru's population activities have been the increase in life expectancy from 54 to 60 years and decline of mortality rates from 14 to 8/1000. The crude birth rate declined from 42 to 30, and the growth rate from 2.9 in 1970 to 2.0 in 1990. Despite the efforts and achievements, serious population problems continue to challenge the national population program.