Nafis Sadik (1929–2022), first woman to lead a United Nations agency
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2 min readNafis Sadik was a champion of international women’s rights and the first woman to lead a United Nations agency.
- Died: August 14, 2022 (Who else died on August 14?)
- Details of death: Died at her home in New York City of congestive heart failure at the age of 92.
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Women’s health and rights
A native of Pakistan, Sadik once worked in her country’s family planning program, trying to break the cycle of frequent pregnancies that was common with many women there. Her high-profile work brought her to the attention of the U.N., and she was appointed an advisor to its Population Fund. Sadik rose to become director of the Population Fund, the first woman in that position at a U.N. agency. In that role, she directed the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development, at which 179 countries signed a pledge to address uncontrolled population growth. Sadik spoke frankly about matters of women’s health including contraception, rape, and female genital mutilation, prompting dialogues about taboo subjects. Ranked among the world’s most powerful women, Sadik was honored with awards from organizations including the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, the American Public Health Association, and the National Wildlife Federation.
Notable quote
“I say with certainty that regardless of country or culture, no woman in the world wants a baby every year.” —from a 1972 interview for the New York Times
Tributes to Nafis Sadik
Full obituary: The New York Times
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