Reproductive justice is not a privilege—it is a right. And yet, every day, millions of people, especially young people and marginalized communities, face barriers to accessing the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) they deserve. With “RIGHTS IN THE BALANCE”, we are taking a bold stand to confront these injustices head-on. This anthology is not just a collection of stories and research—it is a powerful call for change, a clarion voice for those who have been silenced for far too long. It is time to reframe the narrative, amplify the voices that have been excluded, and demand an equitable future where SRHR is accessible to all, no matter their gender, sexuality, or social status.
As a young person who has been through a myriad of experiences, I am acutely aware of the transformative potential that lies within these pages. For over a decade, I have always championed the rights of young people, particularly marginalized groups, in their pursuit of equitable and accessible Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). It is with this commitment to advancing reproductive justice that I present this anthology, which will serve as both a tool for advocacy and a call to action.
This anthology explores a spectrum of critical issues in SRHR, diving into the often contentious and misunderstood topics of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), LGBTIQ+ rights, abortion access, and the pervasive violence that impacts sexual and gender minorities. I am cognizant that these issues are not isolated but are intricately connected to broader societal norms, gendered power dynamics, and restrictive policies that inhibit the full realization of human rights. The voices within this anthology will challenge existing narratives and call for transformative change, ensuring that reproductive justice is not just an ideal, but a lived reality for all individuals.
The themes explored in this anthology reflect the lived experiences of adolescents, young people and women from diverse backgrounds and communities. The aim is to amplify voices that are often silenced, bringing to light the harsh realities faced by those whose rights are too often overlooked or denied. Through the lenses of CSE, abortion rights, SGBV, and LGBTIQ+ advocacy, we hope to inspire not only a change in policy but a shift in collective attitudes and behaviors that are grounded in respect, dignity, and equity.
The importance of this anthology is a direct response to the pressing need for inclusive and transformative SRHR practices. It is a call to action for policymakers, community leaders, and individuals to engage in meaningful dialogues that prioritize the needs and rights of the most vulnerable, ensuring that reproductive justice is realized for all.