Sexual and Reproductive Rights of Women with Disabilities: Some Insights from the UNCRPD Session in September 2023

On the 12th of September 2023 the Committee has issued its findings on
Andorra, Austria, Germany, Israel, Malawi, Mauritania, Mongolia and Paraguay. This
paper presents main findings related to the implementation (or fail thereof) of the sexual
and reproductive rights of women with disabilities, based on the periodic State Party’s
reports, alternative reports by the civil society and Concluding observations on the initial
report by the Committee. The violation of sexual and reproductive rights of women with
disabilities is a pervasive global issue. However, it becomes particularly complex in
certain regions due to a confluence of factors, including resource limitations,
geographical isolation, deeply entrenched traditions, outdated beliefs, and stigmatization.
In these areas, the implementation of such rights faces even greater obstacles,
hindering the full realization of these fundamental human rights for women with
disabilities. In the extensive body of alternative reports and concluding observations,
there's a resounding call for informed consent regarding sexual and reproductive rights
for women with disabilities, yet there's a noticeable gap between recognition and
application in practice. This gap stems from three significant influences: limited
knowledge among healthcare professionals, societal attitudes that restrict autonomy,
and the absence of self-advocacy skills among women with disabilities, all of which
impede their ability to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.
It is crucial to recognize that the violation of sexual and reproductive rights for women
with disabilities is often intertwined with the infringement of other related rights.
These infringements can have a cascading effect, resulting in a broad spectrum of
repercussions that impact the overall well-being, autonomy, and dignity of women
with disabilities. Therefore, it is necessary to acknowledge the intricate connections
between sexual and reproductive rights and other rights guaranteed by the UNCRPD to
comprehensively address the needs and concerns of this vulnerable population.