Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health in Sri Lanka: Are Policies and Strategies Geared to Address Issues?

Abstract

Aims: Adolescents and youth belong to high-risk groups for sexual and reproductive issues. The aim of this investigation is to critically evaluate whether the sexual and productive health issues are addressed in adolescent and youth policies and strategies in Sri Lanka. Study Design: Two distinct methods were used. Desk review to assess the coverage of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues addressed in adolescent and youth policies and strategies in Sri Lanka was followed by 3 focus group discussions (FGDs) with youths and 8 key informant interviews (KII) on SRH policy issues related to sexual and reproductive health of youth. Place and Duration of Study: Both methods were conducted between June 2021 to December 2021. Youth were selected from District of Colombo for FGDs. KIIs were conducted with youth SRH experts in government, private, universities and non-governmental organizations. Methodology: Triangulation of data from FGDs, KIIs and desk review was conducted. Thematic content and narrative methods were used for analysis of data. Results: Adequacy of SRH coverage, issues and challenges was summarized using key six domains of SRH as mentioned by World Health Organization, namely overall focus on SRH, comprehensive SRH education, contraception counselling & provision, safe abortion care, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV prevention care, and violence against women and girls- prevention, support and care. All key stakeholders in education and health sector unanimously agreed that comprehensive sexual education should be implemented in the country. However, there is general disagreement on the grade (or age) of inclusion of contraception of CSE; Level of skills and competencies of the teachers assigned to teach SRH and; Learning aids for students on SRH. The only policy/ strategic plan which covers the SRH aspects of youth adequately was the National Strategic Plan- Adolescent and Youth Health (2018-2025) by the Family Health Bureau. Similarly, lack of priority for SRH aspects of youth was evident in youth policies and strategic plans formulated by non-health governmental organizations. Conclusion: Overall findings highlight the non-priority for SRH aspects in youth policies and strategic plans in Sri Lanka. Coordinated effort of all key stakeholders is needed to improve the SRH representation in youth policies and strategies in Sri Lanka.