The Bulletin on Population and Vital Statistics in the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) Region disseminates available data and statistics on ESCWA countries vital events (births, deaths, marriage and divorce). Data in this bulletin were compiled from national sources and a questionnaire prepared by ESCWA. The purpose of the Bulletin is to encourage countries to produce and disseminate vital statistics needed for better planning and to strengthen countries civil registration systems.

This issue of the bulletin emphasizes the importance of implementing integrated and comprehensive policies that respond to population needs in order to achieve social justice.

Investment in human capital is crucial for poverty reduction and has a positive impact on economic growth and human development. This study analyses the impact of public policy on human development as measured in terms of public spending on education and health in 11 ESCWA countries during the period 1975-2002. It compares achievements in human development across these countries by testing the statistical relationship between the indicators of human development in these countries and their per capita GDP, and through cross-section time-series panel data model.

In the context of modernization and speeding up economic and social changes, the transition from stable traditional societies to a dynamic modern environment requires adaptation, which translates into sound social policies. This study promotes a coordinated and effective social vision that encompasses social and economic priorities of countries in the ESCWA region through a comparison between developed countries, namely, Canada and Norway, and countries at different stages of development, namely, Malaysia, Republic of Korea and Tunisia.