In 1994, the world’s governments adopted a landmark Programme of
Action on population and development. The International Conference on
Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo, Egypt, recognized
reproductive rights as human rights and declared that the principles
of gender equality, equity and women’s empowerment were crucial to
effective population and development strategies.
Since then, some important steps have been taken to realize the
commitments made. However, as the 20-year review approaches, it is
painfully clear that progress has been uneven and slow and that, in
relation to sexual and reproductive health specifically, it has been, at
best, mixed.
Drawing on Amnesty International’s research, this briefing
highlights the need to ensure that human rights standards form the
backbone of the review and of future implementation plans. It ends
with a series of recommendations to end exclusion, increase
participation and accountability, and ensure sexual and reproductive
rights as human rights. Respect for sexual and reproductive rights is
essential for human dignity and for the enjoyment of physical,
emotional, mental and social well-being. Amnesty International calls
on governments to reaffirm their commitment to respect, protect and
fulfil these human rights.