Symposium on Violence, Health, and Sexual and Reproductive Rights
Hall of the Americas | Organization of American States
17th Street and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20006
The numerous forms of violence that are exercised against women pose an obstacle to their individual development, violate their rights and limit their freedoms. Violence against women blocks the full development of their capacities and autonomy, and limits their public, economic, social, and political participation. From sexual violence to domestic violence, violence against women is linked to sexual and reproductive health and rights. For instance, an estimated 1.68 million women in the Americas are raped each year, but only eight countries in the region allow abortion in cases of rape and two have a total ban on emergency contraception. In general, Latin American countries have some of the most restrictive reproductive health laws and policies in the world: from access to information to access to basic health services. Building upon the Declaration on Violence against Women, Girls and Adolescents, and their Sexual and Reproductive Rights, adopted by the Committee of Experts of the Follow-up Mechanism to the Belem do Para Convention (MESECVI), this symposium aims to position reproductive rights, particularly in the context of sexual violence and adolescent pregnancy, as a key priority among the region’s states. It will also be an opportunity for an in depth conversation on the relationship between violence against women and sexual and reproductive rights. During the event, the Centre for Reproductive Rights will disseminate the findings of its advocacy document, “Violence and Reproductive Rights in the Americas”. Agenda 7:30-8:30 Breakfast and registration 8:30-9:00 Opening session
9:00-10:30 Panel 1: Violence and Reproductive Rights
Moderator: Luz Patricia Mejía, Technical Secretary of the MESECVI 10:45 – 12:30 Panel 2: Public Health and Reproductive Rights
Moderator: Mónica Arango, Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, CRR 12:30 – 2:00 Lunch |