Addressing the rights of women in conflict and humanitarian settings

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals commit to an international development agenda based on the fundamental principle of leaving no one behind. However, the global convergence between conflict, crisis, migration, poverty, and young populations is driving serious health and human rights consequences for those living in humanitarian settings, especially for sexual and reproductive health and rights. Despite marked progress in the policy sphere over the past quarter-century, with high-level recognition of sexual and reproductive health risks as well as the need to address these concerns, gaps remain in availability, funding, equitable access to and quality of services, and realization of these rights. A common agenda is needed that promotes a rights-based, participatory, empowering approach; strengthens the evidence base for effective interventions; and promotes continued advocacy and leadership. A transformative leadership agenda is vital if women and girls everywhere are to realize their health and well-being.