On August 12, 2024, in celebration of International Youth Day, UNFPA Suriname initiated a vital dialogue with decision-makers from Indigenous and Tribal Peoples (ITPs), youth organizations, and other stakeholders. The focus was on the sexual and reproductive health rights of adolescents, an issue of critical importance.

Background

This initiative builds upon the outcomes of the Joint Programme (JP) "Leaving No One Behind: Building Resilience and Improving Livelihoods of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in Suriname." UNFPA is dedicated to reducing young motherhood, recognizing that those furthest behind must be prioritized in efforts to ensure their sexual and reproductive health and rights. The mission is to transform disempowerment into genuine agency and inclusion in maternal health, family planning, and measures to combat gender-based violence and harmful practices.

The joint programme addresses the multifaceted vulnerabilities faced by ITPs in Suriname by improving access to essential services and employment opportunities. UNFPA's targeted interventions focus specifically on reducing adolescent pregnancies and early motherhood. A cornerstone of these efforts is the delivery of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in out-of-school settings, which is prioritized through primary health care providers to enhance access to adolescent-friendly sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and services within ITP communities.

To ensure the sustainability of existing CSE networks, UNFPA collaborated with key organizations, including the Medical Mission, the Ministry of Education’s Basic Life Skills Programme, and the IPPF affiliate, Lobi Health Foundation. Additionally, partnerships with the Surinaamse Rode Kruis and the Ministry of Employment, Labour Opportunities, and Youth have further strengthened these initiatives. Significant investments have also been made to build the capacity of service providers to deliver life-saving SRH interventions during crises, as part of district disaster preparedness and management plans.

Furthermore, data literacy training has been implemented, and standard operating procedures and protocols developed to enhance the monitoring and evaluation of integrated ITP policies by relevant government staff and personnel from the Medical Mission. Participatory dialogues have facilitated discussions aimed at amending national SRH and Rights policies and the national Adolescent Health Strategy, ensuring they effectively address the specific needs of ITP youth.

Engaging Dialogue

Presentations from the Medical Mission, Lobi Health Foundation, UNFPA Suriname, and youth advisory representative, Sjaenda Pita informed participants and sparked a lively dialogue about comprehensive sexual education both in and out of school. Discussions also highlighted the integrated management protocols used by the Medical Mission to provide adolescent-friendly health services. The liaison officer shared insights on Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) and decision-making tools. 

Sjaenda Pita concluded with her perspective on the gaps in sexual health care services, particularly the experiences of Maroon adolescents and the challenges of discussing sexual health openly with elders.

The dialogue emphasized the policy landscape, particularly the National Strategy on Adolescent Health (2023–2030) and its Action Plan (2023–2025). Participants stressed the importance of inclusive and participatory approaches to guarantee access to education, social services, and health care for ITP adolescents. A culturally sensitive approach is essential for integrating adolescent sexual and reproductive health policies within the community.

Grounding CSE Initiatives in ITP Communities

To effectively implement CSE initiatives within ITP communities, several key requirements must be met:

1. Local Partnerships: Collaborating with traditional village leaders and other stakeholders to foster stimulating and interactive dialogues about sexuality and economic opportunities between youth advisory group facilitators and Maroon youth in Brownsweg, highlighting the significance of peer-to-peer education.
2. Safe Spaces: Creating safe spaces for discussions on comprehensive sexual education, considering the gender dynamics of participants.
3. Community Engagement: Ongoing sensitization and awareness sessions for entire communities—including parents, elders, and traditional leaders—using culturally sensitive approaches.
4. Counseling and Mentoring: Providing counseling and mentoring in decision-making tools for service providers is essential to ensure effective support for adolescents.

By addressing these requirements, we can build a more inclusive environment that empowers Indigenous and Tribal youth, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.