Sexual Rights for All

Sweden is strongly committed to and perceived as a champion of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Although recognition of the connection between SRHR and poverty reduction has grown in development circles, there is a tendency to favor reproductive rights over sexual rights, despite the progressive plans of action in Cairo in 1994 and Beijing in 1995. The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) wants to again put the spotlight on the importance of sexual rights. Sweden’s point of departure is that development is ultimately driven by people’s own willingness and ability to improve their circumstances. The individual is the central subject of development and it is important to create a favorable environment in which every individual enjoys all sexual rights and can take an active part in the development. When sexual rights are respected individuals are empowered to make choices that can affect and improve their lives.

The aim of this brochure Sexual Rights for All is to encourage a frank discussion about sexual rights as human rights and their role in development. This brochure gives a few examples of Sida-supported programs that strengthen sexual rights and create circumstances that enable people to change and improve their lives.