youact charter2009 saw the publishing of: SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND RIGHTS OF YOUNG PEOPLE A Rights-Based Perspective. The Charter was the outcome of a Study Session organised by YouAct in cooperation with the Council of Europe Directorate of Youth and Sport, and was held in Strasbourg, on 6th – 12th July 2008. During this study session, young people throughout the Council of Europe met, with the overall aim to agree on common objectives and develop effective advocacy strategies to promote young people’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.

Throughout the study session, the participants addressed, explored and analysed a great number of issues related to young people’s SRHR, such as Human Rights and rights-based
approach, international agreements and statements, current SRHR state of affairs in different European countries and policy and advocacy making on EU level. Also more specific SRHR topics, such as comprehensive sexuality education, abortion, access to youth friendly services, gender equality and LGBTIQ, were discussed.

Active and meaningful youth participation on all levels in programmes, policy process and projects was highlighted as important in order to meet the needs and interest of today’s large population of young people. As the choices that today’s young people make concerning their sexual and reproductive lives will affect not just their own future but the future of the wider communities it is crucial that young people are included and listened to.

You can view the Charter on our Resources page.