Policy frames in chilean sexual and reproductive health policy

Abstract

Sexuality in public policy is usually a controversial issue. In the discussion, it is possible to identify several discourses by different political sectors and actors. This paper presents the specific policy frames in the debate about sexual and reproductive health in Chile between 2000 and 2015. The methodology relies on three elements: Process tracing in the field of sexuality and reproduction; a critical frame analysis about political texts of interest; and interviews of governmental and civil society actors who have influenced and/or been interested in the debate on sexuality and reproduction in Chile. From the information collected, five policy frames were identified: Public health; Traditional values; Pedagogic approach; Sexual and reproductive rights; and Autonomy, sexuality and pleasure. The findings show the diverse approaches to sexuality as a public issue and the different solutions proposed in the context of the policy studied.