In a significant step towards enhancing the health and well-being of its citizens, Montserrat recently hosted a consultation to develop a comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) policy on June 11, 2024. The meeting was facilitated by the UNFPA Sub-Regional Office for the Caribbean, Barbados and the OECS Liaison Office as part of the United Nations Joint Programme on Integrated Population Data and Policy Solutions programme implementation. The SDG joint programme is an initiative aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Caribbean by 2030.

This high-level consultation brought together diverse participants to advance the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) policy. Facilitated by Ms. Izola Garcia from UNFPA, Mr. Ogwuche Odo from UNFPA SROC, and Dr. Faqueeda Watson-Jones from Montserrat’s Ministry of Health, the meeting set the stage for productive discussions.

Mrs. Camille Thomas-Geral, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, praised UNFPA’s efforts and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving SRH services, emphasizing the importance of services free from coercion, discrimination, and violence. Ms. De-Jane Gibbons from UNFPA SROC and Ms. Michele Dunn, Joint SDG Fund Coordinator, highlighted the ongoing impact of the SDG fund project.

Officials from the Ministry of Health and Social Services, healthcare professionals, NGO leaders, and youth representatives contributed to the discussions, emphasizing a comprehensive and inclusive approach to SRH policy development. 

Ms. Izola Garcia presented the draft SRH policy, which aligns with Montserrat’s national development goals and international commitments. The policy aims to improve maternal health, reduce maternal mortality and morbidity, enhance the management of unsafe abortion complications, provide high-quality SRH services, prevent and control STIs including HIV, and treat reproductive cancers. The draft policy emphasizes universal access, ensuring that vulnerable groups such as adolescents and migrants are included.

Participants were divided into groups to provide inputs on various themes in the draft SRH policy, addressing key issues such as access to services, education, and cultural considerations. This collaborative approach facilitated a thorough review of the draft policy, identifying gaps, and proposing actionable recommendations.

The consultation concluded with a sense of optimism and commitment among all stakeholders. The feedback and recommendations will be synthesized by UNFPA and incorporated into a revised draft policy, which will be submitted to the Ministry of Health and Social Services and then to the Cabinet of Montserrat for formal approval. This consultation marks a significant milestone in Montserrat’s journey toward comprehensive SRH services, promoting equality and well-being for all.