Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) encompass efforts aimed at preventing preventable maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, to ensure access to quality sexual and reproductive health services, including contraceptive services, and to address sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and cervical cancer, violence against women and girls, and sexual and reproductive health needs of adolescents – World Health Organization (WHO). The focus of SRH as stipulated by the WHO is to increase the possibility of having safe sexual experiences free from discrimination, coercion and violence. To allow for a sexual life that is safe and satisfying with the freedom to decide if, when and how often to reproduce.
SRHR is a concept that spans the aspect of being able to lead a healthy sexual health without suffering unwanted outcomes e.g. infections, pregnancy, shame, discrimination and pain etc. With coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) the realization of these aspirations is at stake. This is why acknowledging the outstanding work Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) do to champion for SRHR issues, we hosted a webinar to;
- Establish the CSO order of operation before COVID-19,
- Outline the disruptions caused and their probable negative consequences
- Chart a way on how to continue the work without losing focus and to realize impact during and post COVID-19.
Author: Dr. Odhiambo David, Co-founder, Ryculture Health and Social Innovation