‘Government’s conservative attitude stifling debate on sexual, reproductive health’

Speakers urge greater participation of youth, civil society members to raise awareness on pressing issues.

ISLAMABAD: Participants at a sensitisation and planning session have expressed their concern over the government’s ‘conservative’ attitude towards sexual health and rights, which is stifling debate on the issue.

Speaking at the United Nations Commission on Population and Development (CPD): Sensitisation and Planning Session on Friday, participants urged the government to ensure effective participation of youth and civil society organisations in CPD 2012.

They said that the country’s participation in the conference will help the world understand Pakistan’s position on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) issues.

The event was organised by Rutgers WPF Pakistan in collaboration with the population and development division and MDG5b Alliance to discuss Pakistan’s participation in CPD 2012 which is themed ‘Adolescent and Youth’. It was attended by representatives of a number of civil society organisations, government authorities, youth and media organisations.

The CPD oversees the implementation of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action and will hold an event from April 23 to 27 in New York. Assassinated prime minister Benazir Bhutto had signed the ICPD document in Cairo in 1994.

Dr Yasmin Qazi, of the David and Lucille Packard Foundation, emphasised the need for collaboration between government, civil society organisations and international development agencies to ensure effective youth participation.

Qadeer Baig, country representative for Rutgers WPF, also emphasised the need for engaging civil society and youth groups.

They were of the view that the government remains conservative in its views and shows resistance towards incorporating SRHR strategies. They said that in Pakistan, socio-cultural norms surrounding SRHR need to be modified through raising awareness, advocacy and legislative change.

The forum agreed to use social media for enhancing awareness around ICPD 1994 and the CPD’s upcoming session.

However, the public representatives present at the seminar defended the government’s approach towards sexual and reproductive health.

“The government recognises the importance of the UN’s CPD and is working towards prioritising it,” said Shahzad Malik, chief of the population wing at the Population and Development Division.

Dr Shafqat, director-general of the population wing, apprised the seminar about the reproductive health bill which will be tabled before the National Assembly for approval after the budget session.

The speakers said that lack of empirical evidence has always been a major hurdle in influencing comprehensive change with regards to policies around SRHR. Therefore, they said, it is vital that sustained efforts are made by civil society organisations to build bridges with various stakeholders.