The Action project: improving SRHR in Asia

Community Action for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Asia (The Action Project) aims to improve the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of young people (aged 15-24) in South Asia. It is a three year project (2010-2013), funded by the European Commission, supporting community mobilisation and advocacy in India and Bangladesh.

The Action Project focuses on the most marginalised young people – men who have sex with men (MSM), transgenders, drug users, sex workers, and those living with HIV. The project is being implemented in partnership with MAMTA and SASO in India and by HASAB in Bangladesh.

The objective is to strengthen and empower youth groups and networks to advocate for youth participation in SRH programming and policy processes through: meaningful participation; knowledge sharing; and dialogue with policymakers and implementers. It is hoped this will result in greater access to comprehensive SRH education and services, especially by those from vulnerable and marginalised communities.

Expected Results

• Increased advocacy capacity of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to influence national policy and programming for youth sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).
• Increased capacity, knowledge and networking of youth groups about SRHR and the linkages with HIV and AIDS, especially amongst young people from vulnerable and marginalised communities.
• Innovative mechanisms developed through electronic media, Youth Partnership Platforms (YPPs) and Key Correspondent mechanisms for linking youth groups/networks to advocate for effective national responses that meaningfully include young people in SRHR policy and programme development.