Policies and Processes for Social Inclusion: Using EquiFrame and EquIPP for Policy Dialogue Comment on "Are Sexual and Reproductive Health Policies Designed for All? Vulnerable Groups in Policy Documents of Four European Countries and Their Involvement in Policy Development"

Abstract

The application of EquiFrame in the analysis of sexual and reproductive health policies by Ivanova et al to a new thematic area, their selection of only some of the Core Concepts of human rights in health service provision and the addition of new vulnerable groups relevant to the purpose of their analysis, are all very welcome developments. We also applaud their application of EquiFrame to policies in countries where it has not previously been used, along with their use of interviews with policy-makers to produce a deeper understanding of policy processes. We argue that clear justification for the inclusion of additional, or replacement of some exiting vulnerable groups within EquiFrame should be accompanied by clear definitions of such groups, along with the evidence-base that justifies their classification as a vulnerable or marginalised group. To illustrate the versatility of EquiFrame, we summarise a range of ways in which it has been used across a number of regions; including a brief Case Study of its use to develop the National Health Policy of Malawi. While EquiFrame focuses on policy content, we preview a new policy analysis tool -Equity and Inclusion in Policy Processes (EquIPP) -which assesses the extent of equity and inclusion in broader policy processes. Together, EquiFrame and EquIPP can be used to help governments and civil society ensure that policies are addressing the much stronger emphasis on social inclusion, now apparent in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

How can sexual and reproductive health and rights be enhanced for young people with intellectual disability? – focus group interviews with staff in Sweden

“…The overarching theme revealed positive aspects regarding SRHR related issues for young people with ID such as a growing acceptance among the staff themselves and in society as a whole. This is a promising result and in line with other studies [18,19] indicating that the common rights stipulated by the UN (2006) are increasingly respected. However, the theme also points towards remaining challenges such as frustration, uncertainty and stigma, which previous studies also have shown [20,21].…”

Barriers to the Implementation of the Health and Rehabilitation Articles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in South Africa

“…60 Government programs to address disability must also take into account issues such as poverty which blight communities of persons with disabilities. Furthermore, since attitudes underpin most of the barriers, a comprehensive disability advocacy strategy that targets social institutions should be a fundamental element of any implementation plan.…”

In Search of the Third Eye, When the Two Others Are Shamefacedly Shut? Comment on "Are Sexual and Reproductive Health Policies Designed for All? Vulnerable Groups in Policy Documents of Four European Countries and Their Involvement in Policy Development"

“…11 Yet, we argue again, that this is not only a shortcoming of those four countries, but of most countries in the broad European region. Furthermore it is neither a shortcoming that applies solely to the vulnerable but to most.…”