DESPITE ongoing efforts, there remains a considerable gap in access to sexual and reproductive health rights in Fiji.
Speaking at a multi-stakeholder roundtable discussion addressing critical human rights challenges in Fiji, Femlink Pacific representative Frances Qounadovu said this was particularly so for women in rural and maritime areas
She said it was important that Fiji recognises sexual and reproductive health as a core human rights issue.
“With medical services specific, our core human rights issue that we emphasise on and provide services for is sexual reproductive health rights,” she said.
Ms Qounadovu said many women living in remote areas face limited access to essential health services, prompting Femlink to work in collaboration with health centres and hospitals to reach these communities.
“Our core activity to supplement and complement sexual reproductive health rights is offering free clinical and social services for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
“This includes emergency and long-term responses to sexual assault, such as medical care, STI and HIV testing and treatment, pregnancy tests, and emergency contraception.”
Ms Qounadovu said sexual and reproductive health rights encompass access to contraceptive pills, family planning services and health screenings.
