In 2017, the Council of Europe published an Issue Paper on Women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights in Europe. This Issue Paper sets out key international human rights standards relating to women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights and describes a series of key concerns, challenges, and deficits pertaining to women’s and girls’ sexual and reproductive health and rights in Council of Europe member states.
Since 2017, member states have taken important steps toward the implementation of these recommendations. However, despite many notable achievements, pervasive challenges and deficits in sexual and reproductive health rights persist across Europe. There is an ongoing need for robust member states action to ensure the full enjoyment of sexual and reproductive health and rights for everyone.
This new report reiterates the importance of adopting an inclusive approach in the design and implementation of sexual and reproductive health policies. It stresses the need to pay special attention to women and girls in all their diversity as well as non-binary people and other persons with relevant need, such as transgender (trans) men, who may be at risk of, or exposed to, intersecting forms of discrimination, and who might face increased vulnerabilities. The paper is divided into six sections. Section 1 focuses on the provision of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE). Section 2 addresses access to contraception services and information. Section 3 considers the state access to abortion care and information. Section 4 addresses mistreatment and abuse in reproductive health care. Section 5 addresses the need for urgent action to ensure that women and girls can fully enjoy their sexual and reproductive health and rights free from all forms of discrimination. Section 6 highlights the vital role of human rights defenders, civil society organizations and health care providers.