Global research priority-setting exercise on the sexual and reproductive health and rights of young adolescents

Abstract

Adolescence is a pivotal stage for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Young adolescents (aged 10–14 years) undergo sexual and reproductive maturation, yet research on their SRHR lags behind that of older adolescents. To address this gap, WHO commissioned a research priority-setting exercise focused on the SRHR of young adolescents using an adapted mixed-methods Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative methodology. Over 300 stakeholders from more than 60 countries—including academics, policy makers, advocates, and youth advisors—participated in defining and evaluating research priorities against two evaluation criteria: answerability and impact. 30 research priorities were identified, with top-ranked priorities focusing on the role of social media in young adolescents' SRHR, mental health challenges, and disparities in SRHR needs among marginalised subpopulations. The findings highlight the importance of ethical engagement with young adolescents and implementation of tailored comprehensive sexuality education. The identified research priorities emphasise the need for scalable interventions and policies that align with young adolescents' developmental needs and the needs of their caregivers while addressing sociocultural barriers. The research priorities also reflect a clear ambition to develop and implement co-designed, age-appropriate, and scalable SRHR education and health interventions for young adolescents, laying the foundation for long-term wellbeing.