Regional Strategic Framework for accelerating universal access to sexual and reproductive health in the WHO South-East Asia Region 2020–2024

Overview

The WHO South-East Asia Region has made significant progress in strengthening sexual and reproductive health services and rights. Between 2000 and 2017 the Region reduced the maternal mortality ratio by more than 57%. Between 1990 and 2018 the Region reduced neonatal mortality by 60%. In 2016 the Region was validated to have eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus. Several Member States have now eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis. In line with the Region’s updated Flagship Priorities, all countries are striving to accelerate the reduction of maternal, neonatal and under-five mortality and achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive health services.

To fulfil the Region’s Flagship Priorities, and meet applicable Sustainable Development Goal targets, in addition to the global Survive, Thrive and Transform agenda, sustained and accelerated action is needed, to which this regional strategic framework will contribute. By 2030 all countries should have a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) that is at least two thirds of their 2010 baseline. No country should have an MMR of more than 140 per 100 000 live births. Neonatal mortality should be at least as low as 12 per 1000 live births. Sexual and reproductive health services should be universally accessible, and all people should have their sexual and reproductive rights respected, protected and fulfilled.