Reproductive Health III

The 1994 International Conference of Population and Development (ICPD) ushered in a new era of research, development and human rights. The definition of reproductive health, which also includes sexual health, adopted at the ICPD called for a paradigm shift from analyzing individual components to addressing it holistically.  Elements of sexual and reproductive health are included in three of the eight millennium development goals (MDGs): reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, and combating HIV and AIDS. Achieving, by 2015, universal access to reproductive health is a target for the MDG on improving maternal health.

Sexual and reproductive health is affected by socio-cultural, economic and demographic factors, including gender norms, beliefs, taboos, and other determinants of individual behaviour. Health-care policies and the delivery of services also influence sexual and reproductive health. All these aspects are within the realm of population and development research and policy. Over the years, population experts have contributed to a better understanding and measurement of sexual and reproductive health, by analyzing levels and trends and also by documenting the determinants and consequences of poor sexual and reproductive outcomes. Evidence on a number of critical issues however still remains sparse or inconclusive. The objective of the Panel is to disseminate the available evidence and to stimulate and advance research in critical, but often neglected, areas by bringing together researchers, interested policy makers and programme managers from different regions and areas of specialization. As part of the activities of the Panel, three focused scientific seminars are proposed to be undertaken before the end of December 2014.