Why Sexual Rights Matter?
Sexual and reproductive rights are closely linked with reproductive health and well being. In Pakistan, marriage is recognized as the socially acceptable institution where sexual relations and behaviours are legally permissible. Overall, 71% of 25-29 year old men and women are married and even though the age at marriage is rising, girls continue to be married at younger ages compared to boys. A Population Council study reveals that among married 20 -24 year olds, around 14 percent of young men and 50 percent of young women are married before the age of 20. In addition, most marriages in Pakistan are followed by pregnancy and birth as 30 percent of young women reported being pregnant or mothers before 20 years of age.

It has also been found that more than 1 in 3 women have unmet needs for family planning and that the proportion of women who wish to limit or space their pregnancies has been increasing.  In Pakistan, this is particularly important, as socially intrinsic gender inequality often leaves women out of family decision making process. Additionally, joint family systems reinforce women’s disempowerment as they are forced by various actors to make decisions against their choice and rights. Given the Pakistani context the importance of working on sexual rights within marriage becomes very significant with direct implications on reproductive health outcomes, particularly of young and newly married women.

Sexual health and practice of sexual rights within marriage can be determined by assessing the prevalence of unwanted pregnancy, abortion, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), violence, sexual well being and overall satisfaction within marital relations.

Objectives and Strategies
It is considered that educating young/premarital adults on sexuality and sexual rights will promote healthy behaviours and enable them to view marriage as an equitable and mutually enjoyable relationship. Keeping this in mind, the RC will actively advocate for the integration of SR in non-government and government service delivery organizations and support institutions for the institutionalization of SR within their programs and policies. The component will also develop culturally appropriate and relevant manuals and IEC materials on sexual rights particularly for pre marital and young married couples. In addition, the RC will engage with the mass media (via print, television and radio programs) to raise awareness on sexual rights.