The first-ever National Conference on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Liberia was a gathering of policymakers, CSOs, activists, researchers, healthcare providers, and advocates dedicated to promoting and advancing the rights and well-being of individuals in matters concerning sexual and reproductive health. The just concluded conference, organized by Amplifying Rights Network – ARN, a network of 10 Civil society organizations in Liberia, held in Monrovia from 26th – 28th May 2023 at the Ministerial Complex, brought together experts and stakeholders from around the world to share knowledge, experiences, and strategies to address the pressing challenges and opportunities in the field. The conference served as a platform to engage in meaningful discussions, collaborate on innovative solutions, and drive transformative change in SRHR.
With support from the Swedish Government, the National Conference on SRHR in Liberia was a joint effort between ARN,The Swedish Association for Sexuality Education (RFSU), who are the key partners and other SRHR actors in Liberi.
One of the key themes of the conference was the importance of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) and its role in empowering individuals, particularly young people, to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Speakers highlighted the need to overcome barriers such as cultural taboos, stigma, and limited resources that hinder access to accurate information and services. One of the guest speakers said “CSE is for both girls and boys. We focus so much on the girls and forget the boy. The boys also have their transformation(wet dreams). We need to start bridging this gap. Sex is supposed to be pleasurable and most women in Africa do not enjoy sex because the men are not educated on pleasure.” The conference attendees shared best practices and successful initiatives that have effectively promoted CSE, including community-based programs, peer education, and the integration of technology for wider reach.
CSE is for both girls and boys. We focus so much on the girls and forget the boy. The boys also have their transformation(wet dreams). We need to start bridging this gap
A focal point of the SRHR conference was the recognition and promotion of reproductive rights as an essential component of overall human rights. Discussions centered around the importance of removing legal, social, and cultural barriers that restrict individuals’ autonomy over their reproductive choices. Participants emphasized the significance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in achieving positive SRHR outcomes. They also discussed strategies to ensure access to safe and legal abortion services, as well as addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities and individuals, such as those based on race, socioeconomic status, or disability.
The conference also shed light on the existing health inequalities and disparities in access to SRHR services across different regions and communities. Participants acknowledged the need for comprehensive healthcare systems that are responsive to the diverse needs of populations. Discussions focused on innovative approaches to strengthening health systems, including the integration of SRHR services into primary healthcare, expanding access to contraceptives, improving maternal and child health outcomes, and combating sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS.
For me, this is a statement of the very close collaboration between Sweden and Liberia.
Ambassador – Embassy of Sweden
Throughout the conference, participants stressed the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector. They emphasized the need to engage policymakers and decision-makers to prioritize SRHR issues, allocate resources, and create an enabling environment for comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare. Participants also highlighted the role of advocacy and grassroots movements in raising awareness, mobilizing communities, and challenging societal norms and attitudes that hinder progress in SRHR.
The SRHR conference served as a catalyst for change, inspiring participants to work towards the realization of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. It provided a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration, enabling stakeholders to identify common challenges, exchange ideas, and develop innovative solutions. By promoting comprehensive education, advocating for reproductive rights, addressing health inequalities, and fostering partnerships, the conference contributed to the global effort of creating a more equitable and inclusive world where individuals can exercise their sexual and reproductive rights with dignity and autonomy.