IntraHealth International’s Post

Today is the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. PHR works in conflict and post-conflict situations around the world in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence to secure survivor-centered justice and accountability for these crimes. This year, PHR welcomes the global thematic focus on two critical areas of our work: attacks on health and conflict-related sexual violence. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, Ukraine, Iraq, Kenya, Ethiopia, and beyond, PHR has documented how attacks on health and barriers to medical care prevent access to services survivors need to treat injuries, and hinder access to justice. When health facilities aren’t safe, survivors don’t get the medical and psychosocial care they need and can miss the chance to have evidence documented. Damage to health facilities also prevents survivors from accessing vital sexual and reproductive health services. Today and every day, PHR’s work with our partners is vital to further forensic documentation of conflict related sexual violence. Our goal at PHR is to document these human rights abuses in order to achieve justice for survivors and #EndSexualViolence. https://lnkd.in/gqYUQ-C8

🌍 World Sexual Health Day 2024 🌟 In West Africa, nearly 70% of young people lack access to adequate sexual health services. Yet, sexual health is crucial for a healthy and prosperous future. Today, let’s commit to closing these gaps. Investing in sexual education and access to care is an investment in our collective future. Through the Access Collaborative project, we are expanding contraceptive options and promoting self-injection of DMPA-SC for women. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the right to respectful and secure sexual health. #SexualHealth #WestAfrica #SexualRights Jhpiego Alain Damiba FP2030 ACTION CONTRE LA FAIM USAID - Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI) Partenariat de Ouagadougou PAI UNFPA West and Central Africa Anne Pfitzer Jeremie Zoungrana African Union AMREF JSCI LIMITED PATH Debora Bossemeyer Gathari Ndirangu Gichuhi Gahan Anderson, MPH, PMP Beth Fredrick Ashley Jackson Siri Wood

🚨Highlighting the ARISE Study:  Empowering Young Women’s Health in South Africa🚨 The #ARISEStudy is making strides in the battle against #STIs and #HIV-1, focusing on the health of young women. By implementing same-day STI testing and providing immediate treatment, alongside partner therapy options, this study seeks to empower young women and enhance their sexual health. Addressing these critical issues is vital for #publichealth, as it not only helps individuals but also strengthens communities. Together, we can create healthier futures for young women across South Africa. Learn more about the ARISE Study here: https://bit.ly/4hcnz4w #HIVPrevention #WomensHealth #GlobalHealth #WitsRHI30 #ProjectSpotlight

We have to keep on sharing the stories of people in Gaza. Here is Wafa's:

In this 10 minute episode, hear Laura Ferguson and Sarah Emoto give an overview of their paper 'Laws governing access to sexual health services and information: contents, protections, and restrictions'. The paper reviewed 40 laws in English, French, and Spanish from 18 countries to understand how many and which sexual health services and information countries ensure in their laws, which sexual health services are illegal, and which people are protected from discrimination in accessing these services. Listen here: https://lnkd.in/d8AT_vUV

Health education is crucial for young people and it lays foundation for a healthier future.

Sexual health is not just about the absence of disease. Positive relationships grounded in mutual respect, empathy and understanding are a cornerstone of sexual health and well-being. As we celebrate #WorldSexualHealthDay this year, positive relationships take the spotlight. Indeed, when partners prioritize each other’s sexual health – and understand that it is a shared responsibility – communication, trust and reproductive health outcomes improve. https://lnkd.in/gB7-seip United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

In a noteworthy global proclamation, the global powerhouse served as highest power on earth—United Nations affirms today that your sexual health decisions are your inherent right. This momentous declaration, echoing across the globe, unequivocally asserts the fundamental importance of sexual health, bodily autonomy, equality, and human rights within relationships. Aligned with the World Health Organization’s steadfast position on World Sexual Health Day, this joint message resonates deeply, emphasizing the critical need to prioritize the preservation of bodily autonomy, champion equality, and uphold human rights in every interaction. The essence of sexual health encompasses not only physical well-being but also emotional, psychological, and social aspects. It is about embracing a holistic approach to one's sexual well-being, fostering healthy attitudes, and promoting positive behaviors that contribute to a fulfilling and enriching life. Recognizing and respecting the autonomy of individuals over their bodies is a cornerstone of ensuring that each person has the freedom to make informed choices about their sexual health without coercion or discrimination. Furthermore, the intertwined concepts of equality and human rights play a pivotal role in shaping the dynamics of relationships. Equality in relationships means recognizing and valuing each partner as an equal participant, with the right to express desires, set boundaries, and make decisions that impact their sexual well-being. Upholding human rights within relationships involves respecting the dignity, autonomy, and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or identity. It is incumbent upon every individual, community, and society to uphold the principles of bodily autonomy, equality, and human rights in all facets of life, including intimate relationships. By fostering an environment that promotes open communication, mutual respect, and consent, we can create a world where sexual health is not only protected but celebrated as a fundamental aspect of human flourishing. As we navigate the complexities of modern relationships and societal norms, let’s heed the clarion call to prioritize the preservation of bodily autonomy, champion for equality, and uphold the principles of human rights in all our interactions. Together, we can create a more inclusive, compassionate, and empowered world where every individual's sexual health and rights are respected, valued, and protected. You have the right to make a choice. #SexualHealthRights #UnitedNations #WorldHealthOrganization #BodilyAutonomy #Equality #HumanRights #Relationships #GlobalProclamation #InherentRights #Empowerment

#Sexual #violence against women & girls in areas of armed conflict in northern #Burkina #Faso has serious consequences for the physical & mental health of #survivors. It leads to infections, injuries, unwanted pregnancies & sexually transmitted diseases Discover our research https://lnkd.in/d_KbdmcB