Sexual Reproductive Health Rights | Melodi Tamarzians | TEDxYouth@Maastricht

In this TEDxYouth@Maastricht talk titled “Sexual Reproductive Health Rights” by Melodi Tamarzians, the speaker shares powerful stories and experiences related to sexual reproductive health and rights (SRHR). She begins by recounting the story of a Chilean gynecologist who bravely performed an illegal abortion to save a woman’s life, and highlights the complexities surrounding SRHR. From there, the speaker shares her role as a youth ambassador for SRHR, working alongside the Dutch Ministry to advocate for comprehensive sexuality education and the empowerment of young people. She introduces us to inspiring individuals she has met, such as a young Ethiopian girl who faced shame due to her period and created organic pads for girls in need, as well as a Syrian refugee struggling with his sexual identity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of open discussions and policies that prioritize the rights and choices of individuals when it comes to their own bodies and identities.

Throughout the talk, the speaker paints a vivid picture of the intersectionality of SRHR with global issues, highlighting its impact on individual lives. She calls for a collective commitment to destigmatize conversations around menstruation and ensure accessibility to sanitary products for girls worldwide. The speaker also emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive sexuality education to empower young people and help them make informed decisions about their sexuality. Through these powerful stories and her personal experiences, the speaker aims to raise awareness about the significance of SRHR and inspire change.

Overview of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights

Definition of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights

Sexual reproductive health rights (SRHR) encompass various aspects of sexual and reproductive health, including sexual health, sexual diversity, personal choice, and access to safe and legal abortion. It is about promoting and protecting the rights of individuals to make decisions about their own bodies and reproductive health without discrimination or coercion.

Scope of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights

The scope of SRHR is vast and covers many areas of reproductive health and rights, including comprehensive sexuality education, access to contraceptives, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), safe and legal abortion services, maternal health care, and support for sexual diversity. SRHR is not limited to any specific gender, age group, or geographical location—it is a global issue that affects people of all backgrounds.

Key Components of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights

The key components of SRHR include access to quality sexual and reproductive health care services, education and information about sexual health and rights, empowerment of individuals to make informed choices, and the elimination of structural barriers and discrimination. It is crucial to address the intersectionality of SRHR with other social, economic, and political issues, such as gender equality, poverty, and health inequalities.

Story of a Life-Saving Abortion

Introduction to the Gynecologist from Chile

Three years ago, during a bioethics course in Italy, a gynecologist from Chile shared a life-changing story. She recounted a day when a young woman came to her practice, desperate and bleeding after attempting an unsafe abortion. Despite the legality of abortion in Chile, the gynecologist made the decision to perform the abortion and save the woman’s life, knowing the potential consequences she could face.

Illegal Status of Abortion in Chile

In Chile, abortion is illegal under most circumstances, making it difficult for women to seek safe and legal abortions. This restrictive law puts the lives and health of women at risk, forcing them to resort to unsafe methods.

The Gynecologist’s Decision to Perform an Abortion

Despite the legal implications, the gynecologist made the courageous decision to prioritize the woman’s life over the law. She recognized the importance of ensuring access to safe and legal abortion services to protect women’s health and rights.

Impact of the Abortion on the Woman’s Life

The abortion performed by the gynecologist had a profound impact on the woman’s life. It saved her from potential complications and even death. This story highlights the challenges faced by women in countries with restrictive abortion laws and the importance of advocating for safe and accessible abortion services.

Youth Ambassador for Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)

Role of the Speaker as a Youth Ambassador

As a Youth Ambassador for SRHR, the speaker works within the Dutch Ministry in collaboration with the NGO Choice to engage with young people worldwide and discuss their sexual and reproductive health and rights. The speaker’s role is to listen to young people’s experiences and use them to advocate for policies that address their needs and priorities.

Work at the Dutch Ministry

Working within the Dutch Ministry allows the speaker to be actively involved in policy development and implementation related to SRHR. By collaborating with NGOs and government officials, the speaker contributes to the promotion of sexual and reproductive health and rights at both national and international levels.

Advocacy for SRHR among Youth

One of the speaker’s main responsibilities as a Youth Ambassador is to advocate for SRHR among young people. This involves raising awareness about sexual and reproductive health issues, promoting access to comprehensive sexuality education, and supporting youth-led initiatives that address SRHR.

Importance of Youth Perspective in SRHR

The speaker emphasizes the significance of including youth voices in discussions and decision-making processes regarding SRHR. Young people have unique insights and experiences that can contribute to the development of effective policies and programs. Involving youth ensures that their needs and concerns are addressed, leading to more inclusive and impactful actions.

Addressing Shame and Embarrassment around Menstruation

Encounter with a Young Girl from Ethiopia

During a visit to Ethiopia, the speaker met a young girl named Nadia, who shared her experience of shame and embarrassment surrounding menstruation. Nadia expressed her struggle with feeling disgusted and hiding her first period from her family.

Stigma and Shame Associated with Menstruation

Nadia’s story highlights the prevalent stigma and shame associated with menstruation in many cultures. Girls often face social restrictions, such as being prohibited from interacting with boys, that further contribute to their feelings of shame and discomfort.

Creation of Organic Pads to Support Girls’ Education

Moved by Nadia’s story, she decided to take action. Nadia started creating organic pads using locally available materials to support other girls in staying in school. Lack of access to menstrual hygiene products often leads girls to skip school, affecting their education and future opportunities.

Impact of Organic Pads on Girls’ Lives

The creation of organic pads has had a significant impact on the lives of girls in Nadia’s community. By providing a sustainable and affordable solution to menstrual hygiene, she has enabled girls to continue their education without shame or embarrassment.

The Struggles of Sexual Identity in Refugee Settings

Meeting a Syrian Refugee

While in the Netherlands, the speaker had the opportunity to meet a 21-year-old Syrian refugee named Yousef. During their conversation, Yousef shared his struggle with discovering his sexual identity.

Challenges Faced in Discovering Sexual Identity

Yousef’s experience sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals in refugee settings in exploring and understanding their sexual identities. Cultural and social factors, coupled with the stress of displacement, can make it difficult for refugees to fully express themselves and navigate their identities.

Importance of Comprehensive Sexuality Education

Yousef’s story underscores the importance of comprehensive sexuality education in providing young people with the knowledge and support to understand and explore their sexual identities. Access to accurate information and resources can help individuals in refugee settings feel more empowered and accepted.

Creating Safe Spaces for Sexual Identity Exploration

Creating safe and inclusive spaces for individuals in refugee settings to explore and express their sexual identities is crucial. It is essential to provide support and resources that address the unique challenges faced by refugees, ensuring their well-being and rights are protected.

Unsafe Abortions and Access to Legal and Safe Abortion

Prevalence of Unsafe Abortions

Unsafe abortions continue to be a significant public health issue worldwide, particularly in countries with restrictive abortion laws. Lack of access to safe and legal abortion services pushes women to resort to unsafe methods, resulting in numerous health complications and even death.

Risks and Consequences of Unsafe Abortions

Unsafe abortions pose serious risks to women’s health and well-being. Without proper medical supervision and sterile conditions, complications such as infection, hemorrhage, and damage to reproductive organs can occur. Women also face legal consequences and social stigma when seeking unsafe abortions.

Importance of Legalizing and Providing Safe Access to Abortion

Legalizing and providing safe access to abortion is crucial to protect the health and rights of women. It ensures that women have the option to make informed decisions about their bodies and reproductive health without resorting to unsafe methods. Access to safe abortion services is essential for women’s autonomy, well-being, and reproductive rights.

Ensuring Reproductive Choices for Individuals

Recognizing and respecting individuals’ reproductive choices is vital. Access to comprehensive reproductive health services, including contraception and safe abortion, empowers individuals to make autonomous decisions about their reproductive lives. It is essential to promote policies and resources that ensure reproductive choices for all individuals.

Intersectionality of SRHR with Global Issues

Understanding the Intersectionality of SRHR

SRHR intersects with various global issues, including gender equality, poverty, and health inequalities. Recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues is crucial for addressing the complex challenges faced by individuals and communities worldwide.

Impacts of SRHR on Individual Lives

SRHR has a significant impact on individuals’ lives, including their health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Access to comprehensive reproductive health services and education empowers individuals to make informed choices and live fulfilling lives free from discrimination and inequities.

Connections between SRHR and Gender Equality

Achieving gender equality is closely linked to SRHR. Women’s ability to make decisions about their reproductive health directly affects their participation in society and their economic and social well-being. Comprehensive SRHR policies and programs contribute to breaking down gender inequalities and promoting women’s rights.

Addressing Health Inequalities through SRHR

Addressing health inequalities requires a comprehensive approach that includes SRHR. Health disparities based on socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, and other factors can be exacerbated by limited access to reproductive health services and information. By prioritizing SRHR, we can work towards reducing health inequalities and ensuring that everyone has equal rights to quality reproductive health care.

Promoting Open Discussions and Comprehensive Sexuality Education

Call for Open Discussions about Sex and SRHR

The speaker emphasizes the importance of open discussions about sex and SRHR. Breaking down taboos and promoting dialogue creates a safe and non-judgmental environment for young people to ask questions, seek information, and voice their concerns.

Importance of Comprehensive Sexuality Education

Comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) plays a vital role in equipping young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and sexual health. CSE goes beyond teaching about reproduction and covers topics such as consent, healthy relationships, and sexual diversity.

Empowering Young People in Decision-Making

Empowering young people to make decisions about their own bodies and sexuality is essential. By providing accurate information, fostering critical thinking, and promoting autonomy, young people can navigate their sexual lives confidently and make choices that align with their values and well-being.

Promoting Inclusive and Non-Judgmental Spaces

Creating inclusive and non-judgmental spaces is crucial in promoting open discussions and comprehensive sexuality education. Schools, communities, and institutions should strive to be safe spaces where young people can seek information, support, and guidance without fear of discrimination or stigma.

Conclusion: Advocating for Sexual Reproductive Health Rights

Summary of Key Points

Sexual reproductive health rights encompass various aspects of reproductive health and rights, including sexual health, abortion, and personal choice. Advocating for SRHR means promoting access to comprehensive reproductive health care, comprehensive sexuality education, and the elimination of discrimination and barriers.

Importance of Advocacy and Awareness

Advocacy and awareness are essential for advancing SRHR. By sharing stories and experiences, promoting open discussions, and advocating for policies that prioritize SRHR, we can contribute to positive change and empower individuals to make informed choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health.

Continued Efforts for Progress

Continued efforts are necessary to ensure progress in the field of SRHR. This includes ongoing advocacy, education, policy development, and collaboration among individuals, organizations, and governments. By working together, we can strive towards achieving universal access to safe, affordable, and comprehensive reproductive health care.

Ensuring Rights and Health for All

At its core, advocating for SRHR is about ensuring that every individual has the right to make decisions about their own body and reproductive health. By promoting access to information, services, and support, we can empower individuals and promote equality, well-being, and dignity for all.