REPRODUCTIVE EMPOWERMENT (Background Paper)

Category
Publication Subtitle

EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES TO IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH

Publication year

2018

Publication Author

Edmeades, J., Mejia, C., Parsons, J., and Sebany, M.

This background white paper is the companion piece for the brief by the same name, which can be found here.

There are few events more consequential to the lives of men and women than those tied to reproduction. In virtually all societies, sexual behavior and the act of having children are important markers and determinants of social status, meaning that one’s ability to shape those experiences is vitally important. The right of individuals to freely make decisions about their reproductive lives has been a cornerstone of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programming since at least the 1994 United Nations Conference of Population and Development.

With funding from USAID and in partnership with MEASURE Evaluation, ICRW has developed a conceptual framework for reproductive empowerment to help address these concerns. The goal of developing this framework is to provide conceptual clarity around what reproductive empowerment means, which will allow for the development of better ways to measure it. This, in turn, will provide the evidence needed to develop more effective programs that enhance reproductive empowerment and improve the lives of women, men and their families.

To access the background paper, click on the image to the right or on the button below.