Sexuality education, contraception and abortion care : an analysis of policy documents by supranational institutions and their application in Malta

Abstract

This dissertation analyses six policy documents published by supranational institutions aiming to identify their recommendations regarding comprehensive sexuality education, thus giving access to contraception and abortion care, through a pro-choice perspective. Utilising qualitative content analysis and thematic analysis, the documents are examined through a policy advocacy framework. The analysis reveals the importance of accessibility, availability, affordability, accountability and safety for the implementation and provision of sexual and reproductive rights and health services, including the legalisation of abortion care with no restrictions. It is argued that these rights should also be made available to all residents of Malta, no matter their legal or socio-economic status, with no barriers to receiving care such as third-party authorisation, parental/guardian or spousal consent. The dissertation identified that Malta’s sexual health policy and sex education policies are outdated (over 10 years old) and do not reflect recent developments, such as out-of-school education and community involvement. There is also limited access to certain forms of contraception due to conscientious clauses for emergency contraception. Additionally, rates of sexually transmitted infections (HIV and syphilis) are at an all-time high. Abortion care is illegal and criminalised and is only accessible to those who can afford to travel out of the country or use online services with support from various human rights’ activists. The study concludes that Malta requires new, comprehensive policies for all areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights. These policies should combine public health measures with legislation to avoid misinterpretation when delivering care. It recommends developing these new policies through consultations with NGOs and human rights’ activists due to their first-hand experience of addressing gaps in current policies and services. Furthermore, involving youths and community members is crucial to ensure the policies address societal needs.