Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) encompasses addressing physical health while enhancing emotional, mental, and social aspects related to sexuality and reproduction.
SRHR ensures that every person can make informed decisions about their bodies and reproductive lives. This means everyone has the freedom to choose sexual activity, select partners, and decide when and how to have children, supported by comprehensive information and accessible services.
SRHR guarantees access ti information and services that is free from discrimination, coercion, exploitation, or violence, aligning with both public health standards and human rights principles.
Access to SRHR services in South Sudan means essential healthcare services that address sexual and reproductive need s. This includes access to contraception, maternal health care, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), safe and legal abortion services, and care for reproductive cancers. These services are crucial in improving health outcomes and enhancing quality of life across the country.
SRHR empowers women and girls and promotes gender equality. When women have control over their reproductive health, they can pursue education, participate in the workforce, and contribute significantly to their communities. Upholding these rights ensures dignity and equality for all, regardless of background or circumstance.
Addressing gender-based violence, including sexual assault and coercion, remains critical. Effective strategies must include legal protections for survivors and community-based initiatives that prevent violence and provide support to survivors within South Sudanese communities.
Respectful engagement with communities, alongside the promotion of human rights and gender equality, is essential for overcoming these barriers and ensuring equitable access to SRHR services that uphold dignity and rights for all individuals.
Investing in SRHR not only enhances health outcomes but also empowers individuals and communities across South Sudan to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. By prioritizing SRHR, South Sudan takes a crucial step towards achieving sustainable development and promoting human rights for all its citizens. This commitment ensures that SRHR remains key to the country’s journey towards a healthier and more equitable society.
Communities in South Sudan are urged to advocate for improved access to essential Sexual and Reproductive services, including contraception, maternal health care and STI prevention and treatment. They should also stand against stigma and discrimination based on reproductive health choices, fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within communities.
Communities must take action to prevent and respond to all forms of gender-based violence, including sexual violence. This includes advocating for legal protections and accessible support services for survivors, ensuring they receive the necessary care and justice they deserve.
Jamnel Care Organization, a national non-government organization with Registration No. 4393 from the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission and funded by Amplify Change, is spearheading a project titled “Promoting a Safe, Responsive Sexual Reproductive Health Rights Environment for Girls and Women in Juba, South Sudan.” The project includes a baseline study of the existing policy and legislative framework, followed by validating and disseminating these findings with key stakeholders. It establishes platforms for women’s advocacy and organizes community media talks to address human rights issues, including SRHR. Additionally, the project monitors and documents human rights violations against women and girls, ensuring these reports inform advocacy and policy changes.
