Post-2015: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

Too many women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are intrinsic human rights. They encompass the right to sexual and reproductive health, respect for bodily integrity, the right to choose one’s partner and the right to decide on sexual relations and having children, including contraception and abortion.

SRHR are directly related to girls’ education and access to the economy; they are critical for the fulfilment of human rights related to sex, reproduction, family life, and economic and social participation. When women and girls do not have full access to SRHR, their ability to contribute economically, socially and politically in their communities is severely constrained. SRHR should be prioritised and addressed comprehensively in all post-2015 development framework negotiations, and not be limited to access to family planning.

Accelerating progress beyond 2015 will require renewed commitment to investing in women’s SRHR, with a focus on universal access to quality, integrated sexual and reproductive health information, education and health services throughout their life.