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  • Discussion Paper

Strengthening rights, eradicating poverty

Why Germany should invest more in sexual and reproductive health and rights

Colette Rose, Catherina Hinz

 

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and poverty reduction are inextricably linked. The study shows that those who want to combat poverty must strengthen SRHR—and vice versa. Self-determination over one's own body is a prerequisite for education, economic empowerment, and social participation. However, poverty makes it difficult to access health services, contraceptives, and menstrual products, especially for young women, girls, and queer youth.

At the same time, international funding cuts – especially following the dissolution of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) – are jeopardizing decades of progress in Africa. Without new investment, there is a risk of setbacks in HIV prevention and treatment, education, and poverty reduction.

The study, commissioned by the German Foundation for World Population, is based on current data and the voices of young experts and activists from East Africa and calls on European governments – including Germany – to invest decisively in SRHR and poverty reduction in order to secure human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development.

Focus Areas: International population policies, Demographic change
published: 4th November 2025

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