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To all our colleagues directly affected by war and warlike conflicts: We hope you and your families are well in these horrible times in the history of human-kind, and we grieve with you by the possible loss of your loved ones.

 

The European Federation for Sexology is to major degree built by professionals in the field of clinical sexology, professionals in sexual health promotion and researchers into the fields of human sexuality and gender.

Many of our members have wide experience in addressing human relation, where the most profound and powerful feelings and emotions like grief, fear, hate and urges for revenge are involved. Many of us are experienced and skilled in assisting groups and individuals who have become victims of sexual trauma both in war and peacetime. We see how actions of sexual violence penetrate the lives not only of the victims themselves, but also their love relations, families, networks and societies.

 

Like many other organizations and communities, we were shocked and horrified by the brutal terrorist attacks on innocent civilians that took place in Israel recently, and our thoughts and solidarity go out to all civilians who are suffering in Israel and Gaza as violence continues to unfold.

We do grieve all the loss of all lives in this and all other wars and conflicts, since all lives are precious.

 

Conflicts of war and violence have always more than two sides. It does include the sides of innocent civilians including numerous children, elders, disabled, women, men, sick and all that are opposed to the use of violence and terror. These voices of despair are drowned by the rumbles of bombs, the smattering of guns and the desperate cries from fellow human beings. Soldiers’ most natural feelings of horror when confronted with the absoluteness of their own death, drown in the “bigger picture” of interests.

Feelings of grief, fear, hate and urges for revenge are very understandable in the conflicts that unfold. We emphasize nevertheless that understandable feelings can never ever justify actions of terror and inhumane violence. Thus far and for far too long conflicts between the peoples of Israel and Palestine have been dominated by use of weapons and power, means that have not brought about what all people need: Peace and harmony.

 

Perverted sexuality used as a weapon primarily targeted at women, but also against children and men, is documented in the present war, like we have seen it in other former and ongoing conflicts.

We condemn all sexuality and gender-based violence as weapons of war, as we condemn violence and terror as such.

 

We acknowledge all peoples’ right to defend their lives and territories against violence, but we condemn actions apt but to sustain and increase the feelings of grief, fear, hate and urges for revenge No real peace no, mutual understandings, no healing of wounds can grow out of such actions.

We strongly believe that terror and violence cannot help achieving a lasting peace built on justice and wisdom, and we deeply hope to see a conflict solving process that can render us pride in our kind.

 

By all the EFS Executive Committee

Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad

Mehmet Sungur

Goran Arbanas

Filippo Maria Nimbi

Charmaine Borg

Tal Peleg-Sagy

Stefano Eleuteri

Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad

Patricia Pascoal

Astrid Hojgaard

Tiina Vilponen

Sam Geuens

 

 

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A Shared Commitment to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

The ESCRH Position Paper reaffirms that sexual and reproductive health and rights are fundamental human rights and should be guaranteed to all individuals without discrimination, coercion, or violence. The document highlights the importance of evidence-based healthcare, equitable access to contraception, comprehensive sexuality education, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, and protection from gender-based violence.

The position paper also emphasizes the need to address inequalities affecting marginalized populations, including adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals, migrants, refugees, people with disabilities, older adults, and sex workers. It calls for inclusive, accessible, and rights-based healthcare systems capable of meeting the needs of diverse communities.

Key Areas of Focus

Among its main recommendations, the document advocates for:

  • Universal access to modern contraception and family planning services;
  • Safe, legal, and dignified reproductive healthcare;
  • Comprehensive sexuality and reproductive health education throughout the lifespan;
  • Stronger prevention, screening, and treatment strategies for sexually transmitted infections and HIV;
  • Improved access to HPV vaccination and reproductive cancer prevention programs;
  • Action against gender-based violence and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation;
  • Protection of evidence-based healthcare from misinformation and ideological interference.

The paper further highlights the importance of professional education, scientific research, and international collaboration in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Supporting Evidence-Based and Rights-Centred Healthcare

EFS shares the view that sexual and reproductive health is closely linked to human dignity, equality, public health, and social justice. The Federation therefore supports the principles and recommendations outlined in the ESCRH Position Paper and welcomes continued collaboration among professional organizations working to promote sexual health and wellbeing throughout Europe.

Read the Full Position Paper

EFS encourages members, professionals, and stakeholders to consult the complete document published by the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health.