Socio-cultural factors
Reproductive health supplies in Central and Eastern Europe
Political will to prioritise reproductive and sexual health needed in central and eastern Europe
Authors:
; Astra Network
Publisher:
ASTRA - Central and Eastern European Womens Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, 2007
This ASTRA network paper examines barriers to accessing reproductive health services and supplies in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The paper finds that reproductive health is not prioritised in government policies: they lack a commitment to recognise reproductive health supplies as an important component of public health and human rights and there is no adequate legislation and policy in this area. Condoms are widely available, but their cost is often high, especially for young people. HIV testing is accessible, but testing for other sexually transmitted infections including Chlamydia is rare – tests are suggested by doctors only after symptoms have occurred.
The paper finds that non-state providers in the region fill the gap left by governments especially in education and counselling services. Private sector organisations subsidise contraceptives, and UN bodies distribute free condoms in some countries. The paper highlights other barriers to access including a lack of adequate sex education and low awareness of reproductive health in many societies. The authors suggest that people need to be made more aware of their rights, and better dialogue is required with politicians, policymakers and government officials.
