“Ahead of the start of a new political cycle in the European Union (EU) in mid-2024, there is a critical opportunity to bolster commitments and action to ensure that the EU’s foundational values of human rights, gender equality and respect for the rule of law are fully realised in all Member States and across all EU legislation and policies.”

As the European Union stands on the cusp of a transformative political cycle in mid-2024, the urgency to fortify commitments to foundational values becomes paramount. In the latest report titled “2024-2029: Priorities for EU Action to Advance Gender Equality and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights,” the Center for Reproductive Rights outlines a roadmap. This strategic blueprint propels the EU into a new era, presenting key recommendations for action to safeguard and enhance gender equality and SRHR within its borders and far beyond.

Concrete Priorities for EU Action:

1. Legislative and Policy Framework Reinforcement: The call for equal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare for all women within the EU is ringing louder. To address this, the EU aims to strengthen its legislative and policy framework. This includes adopting new laws and policies while ensuring the effective implementation of existing ones, marking a firm stance against discrimination.
2. Global Leadership on SRHR: The EU seeks to lead globally on SRHR, committing to increased action to protect human rights defenders. By demonstrating a strong stance against retrogression and backsliding on SRHR, the EU strives to set an example for the world. The commitment extends to supporting defenders facing intimidation and threats within Member States.
3. Internal Governance Strengthening: Recognising the need for internal reform, the EU aims to fortify its governance structures. This includes enhancing monitoring and data collection mechanisms to address SRHR effectively across all relevant EU mandates.

Three Key Recommendations for Action:

1. Strengthening Legal Instruments: Emphasising the protection of women and girls in all their diversity, the EU envisions robust legal instruments within its competence. These will ensure equal access to healthcare, especially for survivors of gender-based violence.
2. Effective Enforcement: Addressing persistent issues, the EU calls for the guarantee of equal protection under existing laws, focusing on eradicating discrimination against Roma women in reproductive health settings.
3. Global Prominence on SRHR: As the EU seeks to influence countries aspiring to join during this political cycle, it emphasises the alignment of candidate countries’ SRHR policies with international human rights standards.

The EU’s ambitious agenda for 2024-2029 revolves around reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and SRHR. The focus on legislative, global, and internal actions signals a dedication to upholding human rights and building a future where the health and rights of millions of women and girls are safeguarded. The success of these initiatives will undoubtedly mark a significant milestone in the journey towards a more inclusive and equal Europe.

Download 2024-2029: EU Action to Advance SRHR

Source: Center for Reproductive Rights