Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights as Catalyst for Social and Economic Rights: Advancing Health, Equity and Development

Co-sponsored by the governments of Brazil, Colombia, and South Africa, PMNCH, WHO, HRP, and UNFPA

As we gather at the Commission on Population and Development, we reaffirm that sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are essential to individual well-being, social progress, and sustainable development. The Programme of Action of Cairo and subsequent global agreements have built strong consensus around universal access to SRHR and health services. When upheld, these rights empower women and girls, support education and economic participation, and break intergenerational cycles of poverty—benefiting entire societies. Yet, despite global commitments, deep inequalities persist, especially in the Global South, where underfunded health systems and limited access to services disproportionately affect marginalized populations.

The COVID-19 pandemic further revealed the fragility of health systems, with SRHR services among the first to suffer disruption. This reality underscores the urgency of integrating SRHR into health emergency preparedness and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) frameworks. Strengthening international partnerships and promoting equitable financing are essential to address the persistent gaps in access to care. This event will provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration, focusing on the urgent need for fair resource distribution and collective action to ensure that all people—regardless of geography or income—can realize their full sexual and reproductive rights.

Agenda