Regional policy analysis of sexual and reproductive health and rights framework in Africa

Africa remains the region worst affected by sexual and reproductive ill health, accounting for high maternal deaths, unsafe abortion, teen and unintended pregnancies, HIV and unmet need for contraception.

More importantly, universal access to SRHR services has remained low, especially for people in rural or disadvantaged communities. This situation is exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the impacts of climate change, shrinking civic space, economic instability, armed conflict, and humanitarian crises, which are critical issues that affect available resources and expose the inadequacies in the health sector in many African countries. Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are fundamental human rights essential for overall well-being and development.

However, access to SRHR services and information remains a major challenge in many African countries due to number of reasons, including restrictive policies, social stigma, and limited resources. Understanding the existing policy frameworks for SRHR across Africa is crucial for identifying gaps, promoting best practices, and advocating for  improved policies that ensure everyone can enjoy their SRHR.