Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic presents unprecedented scenarios and challenges for programme managers. Health systems have been overwhelmed with the increasing number of cases, and the focus has shifted to saving lives. Furthermore, lockdowns have adversely affected the production and distribution of products and availability of commodities, while the restrictions in movement have limited individuals’ access to services. This article analyses the possible consequences of the pandemic on the rights of individuals and couples and endeavours to provide justifications for continued national commitment and investments in family planning, especially during these challenging times. As sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights are fundamental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, it is critical to focus on ensuring rights-based family planning, because it is intimately associated with fundamental human rights, addresses the issue of equity, equality and universality and provides valid and practical solutions to the vital economic quagmire that has unfolded as a consequence of this global crisis.
Highlights
The first case of pneumonia caused by a novel coronavirus was reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) from Wuhan (Hubei province) in China on 31 December 2019
Our analysis took into consideration the 14 countries across Asia-Pacific that currently have a high maternal mortality ratio of above 100 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births,* which is often correlated with lower access to and utilisation of key health services such as contraception, skilled birth attendance and facility-based deliveries
Based on preliminary assessments conducted for these high-priority countries, we have modelled a best case and a worst case scenario of COVID-19’s impact—a 20 per cent decrease or a 50
Summary
The first case of pneumonia caused by a novel coronavirus was reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) from Wuhan (Hubei province) in China on 31 December 2019. Keywords COVID-19 pandemic, sexual and reproductive health and rights, family planning, access to services, supply chain management
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