Reproductive justice and gender: Theoretical and political challenges in brazil amplified by the covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Through the analysis of government actions during the response to the Covid-19 pandemic related to sexual and reproductive rights, this article reflects on the Brazilian government’s neglect of women’s health, especially in relation to users of the country’s unified health system, violating the principles enshrined in the constitution. The pandemic has particularly affected populations who have been historically excluded by various forms of oppression and subjugation. The findings highlight the slackening of sexual and reproductive health care, which can result in unplanned pregnancy, unsafe abortion and maternal death, worsening the social conditions of a large segment of the population. By articulating the social markers of difference and the principle of social justice, it is argued that theoretical contributions from the field of black feminism, namely intersectionality and reproductive justice, can help understand social inequalities and promote collective resistance to the dismantling of the country’s health policies.