The incidence and mortality of cervical cancer are both much higher in the developing countries than in the developed world. Furthermore, it is estimated that by the year 2050, there will have been more than 1 million cases of cervical cancer a year, with a majority of them in the developing world. The control of cervical cancer is a real challenge in the developing world as it is related to the cultural and socio-economic conditions, and not only to the scientific aspects. In the developing countries, since the introduction of Pap smear in the mid-20^th century and subsequent introduction of colposcopy, the disease has shown a remarkable control. With the addition of HPV testing and introduction of vaccines, it is likely to be further controlled. All these technologies are not available freely to women in the developing world. In India 120 000 women are detected annually and 80 000 die of it due to late diagnosis. At the meeting in Malaysia in May 2013, 70 nations asked for action against cervical cancer by the year 2015 and encouraged the use of vaccines. FIGO’s Comprehensive Cervical Cancer Control needs to be followed. The forum gave clear pathways to this goal. In countries of low income, visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid is the only method which is feasible for large scale at present. Simultaneously, introduction of HPV testing and use of vaccines must be promoted. Innovative information campaigns to increase awareness shall encourage to such actions. Co-factors for the development of cervical cancer are important contributors. They include high parity, chronic infection, tobacco use, malnutrition and lack of hygiene. Hence, the improvement of social factors like women’s education, alleviation and prevention of poverty need to be attended to. For this to happen, the effort on the part of all governments, international agencies and medical profession needs to be sustained. The introduction of vaccines as an addition to screening gives the hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel.