Human Rights
Canada : Alice Hope Birungi To Lecture At Global Conference on Sexual Health
On May 7th and 8th, 2024, the Sackville Banquet Hall in Toronto will host a critical gathering for discussing Sexual Health, Reproductive Rights, and Gender Equity in Refugee and Humanitarian Crises. The “Global Conference on Sexual Health, Reproductive Rights, and Gender Equity in Refugee and Humanitarian Crises,” orchestrated by Hope for Refugees International (HRI) .
Alice Hope Birungi, president of ADSON, is set to shine a spotlight on pressing health issues faced by refugees and those in crisis situations.
The conference, open exclusively to individuals based in Canada, offers free registration, particularly encouraging participation from Black refugees, asylum seekers, LGBTQ+ community members, women, and youths. It promises to be an inclusive event aimed at fostering comprehensive discussions and formulating viable solutions.
Statistical Overview of Sexual and Reproductive Health Challenges: Refugee and humanitarian crises significantly exacerbate vulnerabilities concerning sexual and reproductive health. Recent studies indicate the following:
- Access to SRH Services: Approximately 60% of pregnant refugee women do not have access to essential obstetric services, leading to higher risks of maternal and infant mortality.
- Gender-Based Violence: Reports show that up to 70% of women in conflict-affected regions experience gender-based violence, impacting their long-term health and wellbeing.
- Contraceptive Use: Only about 15% of women in refugee camps have access to contraceptives, contributing to unintended pregnancies and related health complications.
- HIV and STDs: The prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases is significantly higher in refugee populations than in the general population, partly due to limited healthcare access and information.
The conference will address these issues under the theme “Rights, Dignity, and Access: Advancing Sexual Health and Reproductive Rights Amidst Refugee and Humanitarian Crisis.” It aims to bring together experts, activists, and affected individuals to share insights and strategies for improving conditions within these vulnerable populations. Sessions will cover a range of topics, from providing SRH services during crises to legal frameworks that protect and promote gender equity.
Alice Hope Birungi, a fervent advocate for refugee rights and gender equality, will lead discussions, emphasizing the necessity of integrated approaches to address the SRH challenges in these settings effectively. The conference is a pivotal platform for turning dialogue into action, aiming to restore dignity and access to essential services for all affected by such crises.
For more information on the event and to register, visit the Hope for Refugees International event page.
About Hope for Refugees International
At Hope for Refugees International, our mission is both simple and profound: we are dedicated to extending a compassionate hand to those displaced by conflict, persecution, and hardship. Our commitment focuses on enhancing access to immigration services and healthcare, including mental health and essential sexual reproductive health services, as well as HIV/AIDS services. We strive for gender equality, aim to defeat poverty, tackle inequality, combat climate change, and promote social justice.
Our efforts are fueled by a firm belief in humanity, human rights, equity, inclusion, and diversity. We recognize and uphold the inherent dignity and resilience of Black and LGBTQ+ refugees and the world’s most vulnerable groups, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances. Through our initiatives, we aspire to create a more equitable and just world for all.
