Dear WAS Members and Friends,
This week's newsletter brings together vital updates and resources, including: - Highlights from World AIDS Day, commemorated on December 1.
- Two important Sexual Health publications from the Bulletin of the World Health Organization (WHO), co-authored by key WAS Committee Members.
- Reminders to register for WAS 2025 and attend the General Assembly on December 12.
Read on for more. | | | On December 1, the global community came together to commemorate World AIDS Day 2024 under the theme "Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!".
This year's theme emphasizes that protecting human rights and addressing inequalities are key to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. This approach aligns closely with the principles outlined in the WAS Declaration on Sexual Rights, which envisions a world where Sexual Health and Rights are a reality for ALL.
WAS stands with WHO and its partners in championing the right to health for ALL. We call on leaders and citizens alike to challenge stigma, eliminate disparities, and advocate for inclusive, evidence-based approaches to health and well-being. Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind. | | Key Resources: Advancing Sexual Health and Well-Being | | | Editorial: Advancing Sexual Health for All | | | A recent editorial in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization calls for the normalization of Sexual Health in public health and development agendas. It underscores the importance of tackling stigma, protecting rights, and adopting a positive, inclusive approach to Sexual Health and Well-Being.
Authored by leading experts, including WAS contributors, the piece highlights the need for global investment and policy reform to integrate Sexual Health into broader health and human rights efforts.
Advancing sexual health and well-being for all. Sagri Singh, Sahil Tandon, Uwemedimo Uko Esiet, Anna E. Kågesten, Sofia Gruskin, SM Shaikat, Luchuo Engelbert Bain, Faysal El Kak, Carmen H. Logie, Rajalakshmi RamPrakash, Mariangela Freitas da Silveira, Rayka Kumru, Zahra Stardust, Tarek Turk, Eusebio Rubio-Aurioles, E. Tyler Crone, and Thierry Troussier. Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2024;102:843–843A.
The editorial also announces the establishment of the Sexual Health and Well-being Advisory Group, a pioneering initiative by WHO aimed at broadening the approach to the Sexual Health and well-being agenda. This group will focus on building a robust knowledge base anchored in diverse global experiences that link sexual well-being with human development and rights.
We proudly congratulate the newly established Advisory Group and celebrate the fact that several WAS members are part of this important initiative. This milestone reflects a collective commitment to advancing Sexual Health and Well-Being for ALL.
| | Research: Associations Between Sexual Health and Well-Being | | | A comprehensive systematic review also published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization explores the associations between Sexual Health dimensions and overall health and well-being. The findings highlight significant links between positive Sexual Health indicators and improved mental health, higher quality of life, and greater life satisfaction across diverse populations.
The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing Sexual Health as a promotable resource for enhancing overall well-being and calls for integrating Sexual Health into broader health and development agendas.
Associations between sexual health and well-being: a systematic review. Vasconcelos P, Carrito ML, Quinta-Gomes AL, Patrão AL, Nóbrega CA, Costa PA, Nobre PJ. Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2024 Dec 1;102(12):873-887D. doi: 10.2471/BLT.24.291565. Epub 2024 Nov 4. PMID: 39611198; PMCID: PMC11601183.
| | Reminder: Register Now for WAS 2025 | | | | Don't miss your chance to attend the 27th WAS Congress, taking place from June 16–19, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia.
With the theme "Advancing Sexual Health, Rights, Justice, and Pleasure. Everyone. Everywhere. Every Time," this global event will feature leading experts, innovative research, and collaborative opportunities.
Early bird registration ends February 28, 2025. | | WAS 2025: Second Call for Abstracts Coming Soon | | | | We are pleased to share that there will soon be a second call for abstracts for WAS 2025. This is another opportunity to share your work and contribute to advancing sexual health globally. Stay tuned for more details. | | Reminder: WAS General Assembly – December 12 | | | | Finally, the WAS General Assembly will take place online on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 15:00 South African Standard Time.
This is an important event for the WAS community to review the year's progress, vote on updates to the WAS statutes, and shape strategies for the future of Sexual Health and Rights.
The GA is open to all, but voting rights are reserved for official representatives of WAS Member Organizations, Federation Presidents, and Advisory Committee members.
For questions or missing invitations, contact Renè de Klerk at exec@worldsexualhealth.net. | | Thank you for being part of the global effort to advance Sexual Health, Rights, Justice, and Pleasure for ALL.
Warm regards,
The World Association for Sexual Health | | Support the Mission of WAS We invite you to support the ongoing work of the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS).
Your contributions help us continue our mission of promoting Sexual Health, Rights, and Justice globally. Consider becoming a supporting member or making a financial contribution today.
Donations are tax-deductible in the USA. | | | |  | |
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