We empower young people by informing them of their sexual and reproductive health and by ensuring their participation in all of our program planning.

We recognize young people have a right to education and health services, and are an asset to our work in advancing human rights. As people under 25 currently represent more than half of the population in Latin America and the Caribbean, IPPF/WHR is acting at a crucial moment to reduce teenage pregnancy and HIV rates, and to help shape young leaders in this influential generation.

Education and Services
Our Member Associations offer health services that consider young people’s particular needs in spaces designed to make them feel welcome and comfortable. Educational programs present a comprehensive vision of sexuality, exploring issues like self-esteem, responsibility, and adolescent rights, in addition to providing essential health information. Peer educators—young people trained by our Member Associations in sexual and reproductive health issues—are often the most effective teachers, engaging youth in their own spaces and language.

Reaching Vulnerable Youth
We bring a particular focus to young people who are marginalized by their societies and whose health needs have been traditionally neglected. For example, GLBTQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning) youth often face discrimination and community and family rejection, placing their health and safety at risk. Our Member Associations are increasing their attention to this group, making their information and services relevant and accessible to sexually diverse youth. Additionally, projects specifically targeting young people living and working on the streets are improving access to services through local partnerships for this group facing drug abuse, violence, poverty, and discrimination on a daily basis.

Youth Participation
IPPF believes that youth participation is crucial to the success of any project. Recognizing that we cannot affect or appropriately reach young people without their own input, IPPF/WHR has institutionalized youth participation within our own governance, program design, and management. Youth involvement spans every level of our work, from community outreach projects to our own Board of Directors, where two young people serve as members.

Young people bring creativity, energy, and a fresh perspective to our work. They have been leaders in promoting action in controversial issues in their countries, such as gay rights and youth access to emergency contraception. By including young people at every level of governance and decision making, we are developing active citizens who are informed about the democratic process and will continue to be educated voices in issues that affect their communities.