Seven billion people will inhabit the earth as of 31 October 2011.

This year's State of World Population report, People and Possibilities in a World of 7 Billion, looks at the dynamics behind the numbers. It explains the trends that are defining our world of 7 billion and documents actions that people in vastly different countries and circumstances are taking to make the most of their--and our--world.

The report makes the case for sound planning and investing in people.