Advocacy to improve sexual reproductive health rights of sex workers

About the project

The right to health, including sexual and reproductive health, is the cornerstone of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3). In keeping with its responsibility under SGD3, the Government of Uganda has made important commitments towards achieving Universal Health Coverage and advancing the right to health.

Despite these efforts, marginalised communities face significant SRHR disparities and barriers to services. Sex workers experience elevated risks of HIV, unintended pregnancies, and violence, compounded by stigma and criminalisation.

Project partners, Network of Key Population Service Organisations, will empower sex worker-led organisations to advocate for policy reforms that address the unique health and wellbeing needs of these marginalised communities. Public awareness campaigns and stakeholder dialogues will challenge stigma and foster equitable access to healthcare. 

This will be achieved by: 

• Training 63 UNESO member organisations on policy analysis, SRHR advocacy, and human rights. 
• Mapping sexual and reproductive health service providers in three regions and creating a database to improve access to services. 
• Conducting annual regional health and human rights dialogues to influence decision-making and improve service delivery. 
• Hosting annual radio talk shows in four regions to address community attitudes that perpetuate violence against members of this marginalised group. 
• Developing advocacy messages and materials to promote SRHR and reduce discrimination. 

As a result of the project, it is hoped that sex worker-led organisations will have a strengthened capacity to advocate for SRHR and influence policy reforms. It will reduce stigma and discrimination through public education and stakeholder engagement. Improved service mapping and advocacy efforts will lead to better access to inclusive healthcare, advancing health equity for marginalised communities in Uganda.