Adriana Pereira, the Coordinator of YouAct – European Youth Network on Sexual and Reproductive Rights made the following intervention during the UNECE Regional Conference on ICPD+25.
Thank you chairperson and panel for your insights into families and SRH over the life-course.
On behalf of a few youth organizations here today, we would like to address and highlight WHAT has NOT been said in this thematic session.
Women and girls, disproportionately bear the burden of managing their reproductive lives.
While men and LGBTQI+ individuals are often not equally equipped with information and resources to play their part in preventing unintended pregnancies and transmission of STIs, Including HIV.
When we talk about contraception, its prevalence and the unmet need, we must include men and LGBTQI+ community rights in the process!
From the Contributions yesterday and today, there have been many positive examples of expanding SRH services and people’s right.
However, more can and MUST BE DONE!
When we look at the DATA, it mostly reflects women of reproductive age, BUT if we STRIVE to leave no one behind, we should ensure EVERYONE is INCLUDED – ALL Genders!
Therefore, men and LGBTQI+ communities OF ALL AGES, should ALSO be a part of programs, research and monitoring.
Furthermore, we NEED to IDENITFY the gaps in their ATTITUDES, KNOWLEDGE, practices and PERCEPTIONS on contraception, abortion and STIs.
It is an important step forward to involve the entire population in taking preventative measures and EFFECTIVELY incorporating their DIVERSE NEEDS.
WE NEED to MEANINGFULLY engage EVERYONE in EXPANDING the already existing SRH services, in order to uphold the rights of all individuals.
Thank you for your attention.
