Meeting Report: 24-26 November 2004
In 2003 IPPF renewed its commitment to enabling all women, men and young people, especially those under-served, marginalized and socially excluded, to realize their sexual and reproductive health rights.
Not only did we do this but we specifically made mention of the need to serve people regardless of their sexual orientation.
This is not a simple task, considering that anti-choice, abstinence-only and conservative ideas on sexuality and family life continue to dominate the sexual and reproductive health agenda and that anything outside of the 'norm' seems to cause serious moral panic!
Yet, true to the IPPF spirit of being brave and angry, young volunteers from:
- Uruguay
- China
- Suriname
- Syria
- Kenya
- Fiji
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Kyrgyzstan
came together with Central Office and Regional Office staff to put the needs and rights of gay, lesbian and bisexual young people firmly on the sexual and reproductive health agenda.
During the three-day meeting, we explored our own personal values around homosexuality, examined the causes and consequences of homophobia, considered the links between sexual orientation and wider sexual and reproductive health issues and made recommendations on challenging homophobia and meeting the needs and wants of gay, lesbian and bisexual young people.
The success of the meeting was owed to the willingness of the participants to open their minds to new ideas and understand the importance of not allowing their personal beliefs to interfere with their professional responsibilities.
As a group we recognized our realities but agreed to a vision.
It is hoped that the energy and enthusiasm shared by the Youth Working Group will inspire us all as we strive towards sexual and reproductive freedom for all.