Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on LGBT studies
Year: 2023
DOI:
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Rights to Sexuality and Reproductive Health for Young People in Uganda
Mwesigwa Joseph, Namutebi Joelia Shadia
ABSTRACT:
The right to sexual and reproductive health continues to face significant obstacles in Uganda.The first part of this paper explains the development of the right to sexual and reproductive health internationally by examining international law and conventions, such as the World Health Organization Constitution and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
In analysing international legal sources, this paper sheds light on the legality of sexual orientation and reproductive health rights for young people in Uganda and provides a better understanding of Uganda’s national and international obligations in this field.
The second part of this paper critically examines the current realities of sexual reproductive health rights in Uganda. It identifies country-specific barriers that impede the realization of these rights and provides insight to some of the challenges facing Ugandans.
The third part of This paper discusses three specific areas of sexual reproductive health: Sexual orientation as an aspect of young people’s identity, HIV, parental and family responsibilities, and abortion, with a case study that relates to the author’s experience working at Power Minds Youth Organization in Wakiso Uganda as a Director for Support and Advocacy for Sexual Assault.
Finally, this paper concludes with recommendations on how Power Minds Youth Organization and the civil society can work more effectively in realizing change in this field. It concludes by providing insight in what the future might hold for the state of sexual and reproductive health rights in Uganda.
keywords: HIV, Sexual Orientation, Sexual Identity, Economic, Social Cultural rights