In pursuit of social development goals and HIV-infected women's reproductive rights—South Africa as a case study

abstract

Rights, health and development are interrelated, as health services on their own cannot ensure a healthy population. The fulfilment of socio-economic rights—to employment, education, food, water and shelter—is critical to staying healthy (Singh et al, 2003:5). Social service provision savings from sexual and reproductive health (SRH) interventions can result in economic and social benefits (World Bank 1993; Singh et al, 2003).

This focus argues that a reproductive rights framework should be applied to HIV-infected women's reproductive health and that investments in HIV-infected women's reproductive rights can promote development. It acknowledges: health risks and potentially conflicting individual and group rights, which include risks of partner and infant HIV infection, and a further spread of the epidemic; possible adverse maternal health effects; and orphanhood concerns. Using South Africa as a case study, the focus explores developmental gains that can accrue from a ‘rights-based’ approach to HIV and reproduction within this developing country context. Involving people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in shaping laws, policies and service provision for reproductive rights and health is highlighted.

keywords:

• Sexual and reproductive rights
• health
• rights-based
• HIV-infected
• development