By overturning the Global Gag Rule and reinstating UNFPA funding, the Obama Administration has taken immediate actions to ensure the rights and reproductive health of women and girls. But a lot of day-in, day-out slogging is being - and will have to continue to be - done. And, there are quite a few things that must be undone - for example, the Administration's bold move to repeal the HHS regulations initiated by the Bush Administration.
The US can stand tall at this week's UN Conference on Population and
Development to secure consensus on a robust action agenda for the world
and for U.S. foreign assistance:
- Prioritizing U.S. investment in comprehensive reproductive health services, defined at the ICPD, including care during pregnancy and childbirth, access to contraceptives and safe abortion, and diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS.
- Ensuring access to comprehensive sexuality education that teaches young people how to establish equality in relationships, respect the right to consent in sex and marriage, and end violence and sexual coercion.
- Promoting and protecting the human rights of women at the United Nations and in bilateral relations with other governments.
As Alana says, we know what to do, and as Laurie suggests, we are mobilizing effective alliances for this era of opportunity.
This post is part of the After the Gag Rule salon hosted by RH Reality Check and UN Dispatch.
