From choice, a world of possibilities

U.N. Rules that Peru Must Relax Restrictions on Abortion

On November 7, 2011 an international human rights body condemned Peru for violating the human rights of a young woman seeking legal abortion services in the country and ruled that the government must ease its restrictions on abortion.

News from the Region

Below are news stories, blog posts, and other resources released this week regarding sexual and reproductive health Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean:

Live chat on population 7 billion | Grist

Herman Cain's Planned Parenthood 'genocide' slur | The Guardian

House Democrats Defend UNFPA

A group of 122 House Democrats fought back today against what they called “a systematic and baseless campaign of misinformation” from House Republicans about UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund.

Staff Appreciation Lunch with NEST

On November 2nd, IPPF/WHR's staff received a midday treat from long-time supporters Jerry and Diane Cunningham. During a trip with us to Colombia in October 2010, the Cunninghams were inspired by the work of Profamilia, an IPPF/WHR Member Association that has centers throughout the country.

Carmen Barroso and Sandeep Bathala Talk 7 Billion with Grist

In her opening remarks for Monday's live chat about population issues for Grist, IPPF/WHR Regional Director Carmen Barroso stated that the birth of the 7 billionth person "presents a tremendous opportunity to ensure a sustainable response in terms of the sexual and reproductive health needs of millions who lack acce

Our World at 7 Billion: Impact

The 7th billionth person is estimated to be born today, and over the past seven days, we have been exploring the things this person will need to live a happy, healthy, and empowered life.

Our World at 7 Billion: Maternal Health & Safe Abortion

Maternal health is a cornerstone of quality public health, and it has been the focus of global development goals and debates since the 1980s. Nonetheless, the United Nations reports that more than 350,000 women and girls die each year during pregnancy and childbirth, with 99% of these deaths occurring in developing countries.

Our World at 7 Billion: Universal Access

In several countries throughout the world, poverty, stigma, and legal restrictions severely limit people’s access to sexual and reproductive health services, such as contraception, testing for sexually transmitted diseases, and counseling on options when facing an unintended pregnancy. The need couldn’t be greater. Some 2.5 million adolescents have unsafe abortions every year worldwide.

News from the Region

Below are news stories, blog posts, and other resources released this week regarding sexual and reproductive health Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean:

Republicans' war on abortion rights continues: But we can't give up the fight for women's rights | NY Daily News

Our World at 7 Billion: Sexual Rights

Sexuality is a natural and precious aspect of life, a fundamental part of our humanity. For people to attain the highest standard of health, they must be feel confident and safe expressing their own sexual identity – and maintain sexual and reproductive autonomy. Discrimination, stigma, fear, and violence pose real threats to many people.