As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) has become more evident than ever. However, the funding for these crucial rights is at a “cliff edge,” and it is now up to parliamentarians to step up and provide visionary leadership to ensure that these rights are protected and prioritized.
Dr. Alvaro Bermejo, Director General of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), recently highlighted the urgent need for governments to finance strong and resilient health systems for all their people. He emphasized that the responsibility of securing SRHR for all lies with governments, and it is crucial for parliamentarians to play a crucial role in this process.
The IPPF is a global non-governmental organization that works towards promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights for all individuals. With a presence in over 170 countries, the IPPF is a leading advocate for SRHR and has been at the forefront of ensuring access to essential services, especially for marginalized and vulnerable communities.
Speaking at the Let’s Discuss conference, Dr. Bermejo stressed the need for parliamentarians to take a visionary approach towards securing funding for SRHR. He highlighted the impact of the pandemic on these rights, stating that “the pandemic has exposed and exacerbated existing inequalities, including in access to sexual and reproductive health services.”
The pandemic has disrupted health systems worldwide, leading to a decline in essential services such as family planning, safe abortion, and maternal health care. This has had a severe impact on the lives of women and girls, who are disproportionately affected by the lack of access to these services. It is estimated that there could be an additional 15 million unintended pregnancies and 31 million cases of gender-based violence for every six months of lockdown.
Dr. Bermejo also emphasized the need for governments to prioritize SRHR in their COVID-19 response and recovery plans. He stated that “governments must recognize that sexual and reproductive health is an essential part of overall health and development, and it cannot be neglected or deprioritized, even during a crisis.”
Parliamentarians have a critical role to play in ensuring that SRHR is given the necessary attention and resources. They have the power to influence policies and budgets, and it is their responsibility to advocate for the protection and promotion of these rights. As Dr. Bermejo stated, “financing strong, resilient health systems for all their people rests with governments,” and parliamentarians must take the lead in securing this funding.
Moreover, parliamentarians must also address the systemic barriers that prevent individuals from accessing SRHR services. This includes addressing discriminatory laws and policies, promoting comprehensive sexuality education, and ensuring that services are accessible and affordable for all.
The IPPF has been working closely with parliamentarians to advance SRHR globally. Through initiatives such as the “She Decides” movement, which aims to mobilize political support and funding for SRHR, the IPPF has been able to make significant progress in securing these rights for all individuals.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for governments to prioritize and finance strong and resilient health systems, including sexual and reproductive health. As Dr. Bermejo stated, “the responsibility to secure SRHR for all lies with governments,” and parliamentarians must take a visionary leadership role in ensuring that these rights are protected and prioritized. It is time for governments to step up and invest in SRHR, and for parliamentarians to lead the way towards a healthier and more equitable world for all.
