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due to a confluence of factors, including resource limitations, geographical isolation, deeply entrenched traditions, outdated beliefs, and stigmatization.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.