The Importance of Upholding Sexual and Reproductive Rights (SRHR)
To the States of the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region, we, the undersigned organizations dedicated to human rights, reaffirm our belief that sexual and reproductive rights are basic human rights safeguarded by various international treaties. These include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the American Convention on Human Rights (ACHR). Despite advancements, many structural and legal hindrances continue to affect the autonomy and health of women, adolescents, and marginalized communities.
Concerns Regarding Non-Compliance
We express deep concern over the ongoing non-compliance of various States in fulfilling their international obligations. Significant issues include the criminalization of abortion as a vital health service, resulting in prosecution for decisions made under dire circumstances, including instances of sexual violence.
Further, individuals often lack access to quality sexual and reproductive health services such as contraception and comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in schools. Reports of institutional gynecological violence, including forced sterilizations and denial of care, add to the injustices suffered by women and those capable of pregnancy.
Addressing Conscientious Objection
The misuse of conscientious objection in healthcare poses additional barriers. International law does not mandate states to allow this objection; primary responsibility lies with the healthcare provider’s duty to the patient. Individual health care providers may assert conscientious objection only if it doesn’t bar others from receiving needed care, particularly in emergencies.
Stigmatization of Defenders and Failure to Implement Recommendations
We are alarmed by increasing stigmatization of SRHR defenders and feminist organizations. Furthermore, there is a stark lack of action on recommendations from international human rights bodies, highlighting structural challenges faced by historically marginalized groups, including Afro-descendants, Indigenous peoples, and migrants.
Urging Compliance and Action
We remind the States of their duty to implement comprehensive policies ensuring universal access to quality sexual and reproductive health services. This includes decriminalizing abortion and following international treaty recommendations that stress safe access. States must comply with rulings from international bodies, including the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which has provided landmark decisions regarding SRHR.
Key cases like Camila v. Peru and Manuela v. El Salvador underscore the need for policy changes. The latter examined harmful practices surrounding obstetric emergencies and mandated non-discriminatory care. Additionally, the Court emphasized the importance of implementing CSE as part of the right to education, echoing the urgent need for reform.
Reducing Intersectional Barriers
Monitoring emblematic cases is critical as we follow developments involving youths denied abortion services. Prioritizing CSE and protecting SRHR defenders will help clarify rights related to education and agency. Our approach must be intersectional, where public policies address discrimination faced by marginalized groups, ensuring equitable access to essential health services.
A Call to the International Community
Finally, we urge the international community and multilateral organizations to intensify their support mechanisms to guarantee that states align with international standards. The importance of sexual and reproductive rights cannot be overstated, as they are fundamental to achieving equality and justice for all individuals.
Conclusion
We must act urgently; states must prioritize their commitments to uphold human rights. It’s vital that they ensure the health, dignity, and freedoms of adolescents, women, and marginalized peoples, allowing them access to essential health services free from stigma and violence.
Signatory Organizations
Organizations like Planned Parenthood Global and Amnesty International advocate for these rights and push for systemic change, ensuring that the voices of those who suffer discrimination and violence are heard and addressed.
– Sexual and reproductive rights are fundamental human rights under various international treaties. – Significant barriers still impact access to these rights, especially for women and marginalized groups. – Urgent action is needed to decriminalize abortion and comply with international rulings. – An intersectional approach is essential to address multiple forms of discrimination. – A strong call for support from the international community emphasizes the necessity of SRHR.
In summary, it is crucial for states in the LAC region to comply with their international obligations regarding sexual and reproductive rights. Urgent action is needed to decriminalize abortion, implement comprehensive sexual health policies, and protect those advocating for these rights to foster a just society that respects individual autonomy and dignity.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
