Introduction and Overview

Abstract

Poor reproductive health can have devastating consequences on individuals and families, along with adverse impacts for health care systems, economic well-being and society. Good reproductive health contributes to healthy sexuality, individuals and families, as well as wanted children and more optimal societal and economic outcomes. Although a number of countries had earlier adopted the concept, it was the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) which explicitly recognized sexual and reproductive rights as fundamental to women’s health, and gave much momentum to the field. It also moved beyond the confines of traditional family planning approaches, set new goals for reproductive health and rights, and highlighted their importance for policymakers and publics worldwide. However, a political backlash soon ensued, the HIV/AIDS epidemic worsened with no apparent end in sight, and new funding priorities and mechanisms emerged.