Dear WAS Members and Friends,
With the inauguration of the new President of the United States and the concerning Executive Orders that followed, we begin this newsletter with a message from our President, Dr. Elna Rudolph:
"As a global confederation dedicated to advancing Sexual Health and Rights for ALL, the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) is deeply concerned about recent political developments in the United States. These actions, including the withdrawal from the WHO, regressive gender policies, and restrictions on foreign aid, threaten the health, rights, and wellbeing of millions of vulnerable individuals worldwide.
WAS stands in solidarity with all those affected and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting and advancing the progress achieved in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. Together with our members, partners, and allies, we will sustain our efforts to counteract these harmful policies and uphold evidence-based, inclusive approaches to sexual health, rights and justice." | | As we reflect on these developments, we also pause to celebrate the legacy of Cecile Richards, whose advocacy for reproductive justice inspires us to keep pushing forward.
With the International Day of Education on January 24, we're reminded of the transformative role of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in building a fairer, more inclusive future.
Looking ahead, we have important updates to share, from abstract submissions and upcoming events to our first webinar of the year designed to support your academic publishing journey. | |  | | Image from19thnews.org (Erin Hooley/AP) | | In Memory of Cecile Richards | | | | The global sexual health community mourns the loss of Cecile Richards, a courageous and visionary leader whose tireless advocacy for reproductive justice transformed countless lives.
For over a decade as President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Cecile's leadership paved the way for groundbreaking advancements in health care access, education, and advocacy. Her unwavering commitment to equity and justice inspired movements and empowered individuals worldwide to claim their reproductive rights.
Cecile's legacy is a call to action—to continue the work of dismantling barriers, uplifting marginalized voices, and ensuring that health and freedom are accessible to all. Her profound impact will resonate for generations to come.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. May her dedication to justice and compassion guide us as we honor her memory through continued action. | | Key Dates and Opportunities | | | Abstract Submissions Reminder | | | | The Scientific Programming Committee invites you to submit your work for the 27th WAS Congress, happening June 16–19, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia. This is the final round of submissions, so don't miss out!
Deadline: February 16, 2025
Submit Your Abstract Here | | WSHD 2024 Feedback Reminder | | | | The deadline to contribute your ideas for World Sexual Health Day 2024, themed "Sexual Justice: What Can We Do?", is fast approaching.
Deadline: January 26, 2025
Submit your input to: media@worldsexualhealth.net | | Save the Date: WAS February Webinar | | | | Topic: How to Publish in the International Journal for Sexual Health
When: February 20, 2025, at 4:00 PM, Johannesburg
The International Journal of Sexual Health (IJSH) is one of WAS's key platforms for advancing sexuality research and knowledge sharing, alongside our conferences and global initiatives.
Join Dr. Eli Coleman, Editor-in-Chief of the IJSH, and a panel of experienced researchers for this practical and insightful webinar. They'll guide you through the academic publishing process, providing actionable tips to elevate your research and ensure it gains the attention it deserves.
Register here to save your spot. | | | Federations and Member Organizations: Share your 2025 events with us for inclusion in the WAS Events Calendar! Reply to media@worldsexualhealth.net with your event details. | |  | | © UNESCO / Weiwei Kang | | International Day of Education (January 24) | | | | This year, the International Day of Education explores UNESCO's theme:
"AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation."
As technology and AI systems become increasingly sophisticated, questions about preserving and enhancing human agency in this era of rapid advancement are more relevant than ever. Education plays a critical role in equipping individuals and communities to navigate and influence these changes, ensuring that innovation aligns with human values and dignity.
At WAS, we recognise the transformative power of education as a human right and public good, and we are dedicated to ensuring that comprehensive sexuality education remains a key part of global educational conversations.
While AI brings new opportunities to education, the core principles of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE)—inclusivity, equity, and empowerment—must remain central as we shape the future of learning. | | How WAS is Leading the Way in CSE | | | - Through the Sexuality Education Committee (SEC), WAS provides guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure CSE reflects the highest standards of inclusivity and rights-based practices.
- Our collaboration with UNFPA on out-of-school CSE projects aims to reach the 250 million children and youth currently out of school, ensuring no one is left behind.
- WAS champions the integration of CSE in broader educational frameworks, advocating for gender equality and the empowerment of individuals through informed choices.
| | Without inclusive and equitable education, including CSE, achieving gender equality and breaking cycles of poverty remain unattainable goals.
As we reflect on this day, WAS encourages its community to consider how education—powered by both human intention and technological innovation—can contribute to a fairer, more just world.
For more information and resources on the International Day of Education, visit the UNESCO website. | | Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Warm regards,
The World Association for Sexual Health | | | Upcoming WAS 2025 Deadlines:
WSHD Feedback Deadline: January 26, 2025
2nd Call for Abstracts Deadline: February 16, 2025
Early Bird Registration: 28 February 2025
Accommodation Bookings: 17 May 2025
Standard Registration: 30 May 2025 | | | 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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