KEWOPA, in partnership with the Center for Reproductive Rights, convened a regional training for judges and parliamentarians to strengthen judicial and legislative capacity in advancing Sexual, Reproductive and Maternal Health Rights (SRMHR).
The training brought together key actors from the judiciary and legislature to examine legal frameworks, medical perspectives, assisted reproduction, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, regional human rights standards, and accountability in maternal healthcare. Discussions focused on strengthening institutional responses to barriers that continue to limit access to quality reproductive healthcare services for women, girls, and adolescents.
Participants underscored that reproductive health is both a constitutional and human rights obligation requiring leadership, accountability, and coordinated action across institutions. Deliberations highlighted the need for progressive jurisprudence and responsive legislation that uphold dignity, equality, informed choice, and access to quality healthcare.
The sessions examined the role of African human rights mechanisms in protecting reproductive rights and advancing access to healthcare services. Particular attention was given to maternal healthcare accountability, the elimination of obstetric violence, and the need for justice systems to respond effectively to violations of reproductive rights.
Participants also emphasized the importance of expediting the hearing and determination of cases involving sexual and reproductive health rights, particularly where delays may have significant consequences for women and girls. Discussions explored the complementary roles of judges, magistrates, and parliamentarians in strengthening accountability, advancing legal and policy reforms, and improving health outcomes.
The training concluded with a call for stronger collaboration among the judiciary, legislature, healthcare sector, and human rights institutions. Participants reaffirmed the need for continued capacity strengthening, public awareness, and legal and policy reforms to ensure that Sexual, Reproductive and Maternal Health Rights are fully realized and that women and girls can access healthcare services with dignity and without discrimination.