As part of this project, ASF Canada produced a simplified booklet on the obstacles related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights – SRHR in Haiti. It is designed to strengthen the knowledge and capacities of civil society organizations regarding these obstacles. This will facilitate the implementation of advocacy actions to realize these rights and better identify the needs of survivors of gender-based violence.
What are Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)?
Sexual rights frame everyone’s right to live and express their sexuality and to enjoy good sexual health, while duly respecting the rights of others and within a framework that protects against discrimination.
Reproductive rights recognize the fundamental right of all couples and individuals to freely decide on the spacing of their births, to have the necessary information to do so, and to access the best possible health in terms of sexuality and reproduction.
Main obstacles to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Haiti
In Haiti, several major obstacles hinder the realization of sexual and reproductive rights:
- Criminalization of abortion: Abortion remains partially or fully criminalized, limiting women’s access to safe and legal services.
- Denial of same-sex unions: The lack of legal recognition of same-sex unions constitutes a violation of fundamental rights.
- Lack of specific SRHR legislation: There is no dedicated legislation to protect and promote sexual and reproductive health and rights.
- Limited access to health facilities: Health infrastructures are insufficient and often inaccessible to a large part of the population.
- High medical costs: Medical services and hygiene products are often too expensive for Haitians.
- Shortage of healthcare personnel: The lack of qualified health professionals affects the quality and availability of care.
- Limited financial resources: The medical sector suffers from insufficient funding, limiting intervention capacities.
- Weaknesses in the justice system: Violations of sexual and reproductive rights are not sufficiently addressed by the judicial system.
- Lack of public awareness: There is a persistent lack of awareness and education on sexual and reproductive health.
- Religious influence: Religion exerts a negative influence on certain aspects of private life, hindering the exercise of SRHR.
Recommended actions to improve Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Haiti
To overcome these obstacles, Médecins du Monde Canada recommends the following actions:
- Advocacy: Pressure authorities to adopt laws favorable to SRHR, including the decriminalization of abortion and free contraceptive products.
- Awareness-raising: Implement awareness programs to inform the population about sexual and reproductive health and rights.
- Training: Train healthcare personnel on sexual and reproductive health issues.
- Support for victims: Establish support programs for victims of sexual violence.
