Youth-Led Advocacy Pushes for Progress on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

By Hamu Madzedze

Online Health Editor-Zimbabwe

As the world marks International Safe Abortion Day on September 28th, advocates are sounding the alarm on the persistent gaps in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for young people, particularly in marginalized communities.

Despite progress in some areas, young people continue to face significant barriers in accessing dignified and non-judgmental care, especially around contraception and safe abortion.

Stigma, taboo, and judgmental healthcare providers often create unsafe and vulnerable situations for young people seeking SRHR services.

"We need to create a system where there are opportunities for young people to participate in global advocacy spaces, regional and local advocacy spaces and impact change towards SRHR and justice," said Debanjana Choudhuri, Executive Director of the Women's Global Network for Reproductive Rights (WGNRR).

WGNRR's strategies include network and movement building, capacity building, and campaign mobilization, with a focus on centering youth and marginalized communities in SRHR advocacy.

Choudhuri pointed out that young people find not just a voice but are the heart and soul of the movement building

In Nigeria, Faith Ebere Onuh, Y+ Global (Nigeria) and Gender Equality Fund Ambassador, highlighted the need for increased domestic health financing and youth-led programs.

"When we have invested in youth-led programmes, we see results because youth are not just the future but present too."she added

Magdalena Nadya, IPPF Youth Networker at ESEAOR, emphasized the importance of youth-friendly healthcare services, comprehensive sexuality education, and safe spaces for mental health support.

Nadya said "We need strong synergy between young people, service providers, policy makers, and especially the media who can help not only expose harmful practices, but also amplify stories of youth leadership, resistance, and hope."

Nadya added that youth leadership is not in the future it's already here therefore youth should be trusted and supported.

Maryann Wambugu from Kenya who is the Chair of The PACT and Board member of Y+ Kenya, noted progress in maternal and child health improvement, modern contraceptive use, and decline in female genital mutilation or cutting.

However, she stressed the need for continued investment in SRHR and community-led interventions.

Monalisa Akintole, Forum Coordinator of the Uganda National Trans Forum (UNTF), highlighted the challenges faced by transgender youth in accessing healthcare services.

There is a need to ensure that youth in all their diversities are included they can no longer be a ‘token’ within a system," Akintole said.

Meanwhile Nishant Kumar, Coordinator of Y-PEER Nepal, emphasized the importance of integrating comprehensive sexuality education into national curricula and addressing mental health issues among youth.

"Mental health issues among youth are rising with the suicidal rates increasing to 18.1 per 100,000 people."

As the world works towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, advocates are calling for increased investment in youth-led programs, comprehensive sexuality education, and SRHR services that cater to the needs of marginalized communities.

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