Sexual and reproductive health and rights

Health outcomes in all countries are intrinsically linked to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Unfortunately, despite increased international and national commitments towards SRHR, many women and girls still lack access to essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, particularly in low-to-middle-income countries (L-MICs). Situating SRHR within the right to health, this chapter explores what SRHR are, how the commitment to SRHR has evolved over time, and what the role of the state is in realising SRHR. In addition, I explore why, despite progress made, many women’s and girls’ SRH needs are still not being met, and how the future SRHR agenda is developing, including what is needed at the country level to ensure that SRHR are fully realised.