Reproductive policy in South and Central America

Introduction: Reproductive rights provide access to abortion, contraception, and other forms of reproductive healthcare services. These services can include educational programs on reproductive and sexual health, access to birth control, and allowing individuals to legally make decisions on their reproductive system. From family planning, abortion services, sexual health, fertility/infertility services, and reproductive laws, these are very important to many. Many countries, specifically in Europe and Asia (with exceptions), have been progressive with reproductive rights. However, there are many countries, specifically in South and Central America, that challenge reproductive rights and prohibit them legally. Why: The banishment of reproductive rights is often limited due to a few factors. Cultural normalities, religious expectations, and political/social beliefs all influence the legalization or illegalization of reproductive rights. Many argue that reproductive rights and services, like abortions, are immoral and claim that allowing individuals to be able to have abortions is "murder". Many are conflicted on this issue; nevertheless, many human rights concepts defend and support reproductive rights.

Policies that correlate to reproductive policies:- "The Right to Information and Education": both the CEDAW and the ICESCR defend the human right of giving women access to education on reproductive and sexual health. Allowing this education to spread information that is non-biased and informative for prevention, operations, and the ability to make informed decisions on reproduction.- "International Bodies Supporting Reproductive Rights," the (UN) Human Rights Committee and the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, have advocated for the undeniable rights of women and the (IPPF), which is the International Planned Parenthood Federation, which gives access to contraception and safe abortion.- "The Right to Life," the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), declares that "everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person.". This has often been interpreted as a human rights concept that defends the illegalization of abortion, but this is incorrect. This right doesn't solely include protection from arbitrary killing but also the right to healthcare, which includes reproductive safeguarding. Yes, it recognizes the right to life, but healthcare ensures the protection of life when necessary. Objective perspective: Many argue that abortions and other reproductive health care services promote arbitrary murder, but scientific and biological information allows us to understand that this isn't a matter of morality but a matter of fact. Fetal development is studied through different stages but is typically considered when the fetus reaches viability. A medical procedure that terminates the fetus during pregnancy isn't considered arbitrary killing due to the fetus not being developed to scientifically be considered as a "person". Nevertheless, this is debated, and although science has an objective perspective of arbitrary killing when it comes to abortion, this is still challenged by moral, religious, and traditional ideas. Difficult situations in South and Central America: Reproductive policy is questioned and restricted in many countries. Yet, South and Central American countries have stern policies without much room for justification. El Salvador, for instance, has fully banned abortion with no exceptions whatsoever. Meaning anyone who gets an abortion can face prison sentences. Similarly, Honduras also has fully banned reproductive health services with no limitations, making it illegal in situations of rape, incest, and life-threatening conditions. Women in these countries do not have access to reproductive health services, and illegally doing so is extremely dangerous, and, if caught, they will face extreme legal consequences. Possible solutions: Engaging in community empowerment and advocating for reproductive rights is one of the most productive ways to find solutions and gather others together in an attempt to spread awareness. Supporting organizations that fight for international reproductive rights is also a good step forward into spreading news and involvement.

Organizations to support:- International Planned Parenthood- United Nations Population Fund- Women's Global Network for Reproductive Rights