In this policy brief, we are exploring the interconnectedness between climate change and SRHR, unveiling the gaps in the current Climate Adaptation Policy Frameworks and providing recommendations for Advancing the Health National Adaptation Plan.

KEY MESSAGE:

• Sexual and Reproductive Health and the Rights of women and Girls are under threat as climate change impacts continue to unfold. Urgent action is required to protect their rights and enhance their resilience to the ever-changing climate.
• Overlooking SRHR in climate action policy frameworks has multiple implications such as increasing women and girls’ vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and perpetuating gender inequality.
• Realization of SRHR can lead to improved health outcomes, enhanced resilience among vulnerable groups, and promote gender equality which is a crucial element of gender-responsive climate action. 

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Mainstreaming SRHR components in the Health Sector National Adaptation Plan (HNAP). This would be possible by incorporating the SRHR lens in Vulnerability Assessment and Gender Analysis.
• Ensuring a meaningful involvement of relevant gender and SRHR actors during the HNAP review process and decision-making spaces to ensure women's and girls' needs are assessed, prioritized, and addressed
• Strengthening capacity building on the nexus of SRHR and climate change among policymakers, healthcare providers, research institutions, and other stakeholders such as NGOs, CSOs, and FBOs.