By Sara Haraoui, FP2030 Intern
Growing up in the Middle East and witnessing firsthand the challenges and barriers women face in accessing family planning has fueled my passion for researching and writing about this topic. As a woman and an Arab, I am deeply invested in shedding light on these issues and advocating for better access and support for women in the region. Access to family planning services in the Middle East faces challenges that hinder the region’s progress toward achieving family planning goals, which has compounding effects on the region regarding gender equality and economic mobility. Several key areas to prioritize include:
- Stigma and Taboos: Family planning and contraception often face significant stigma and taboos in many Middle Eastern societies. Traditional beliefs and rigid attitudes toward gender roles and reproductive health can lead to widespread misinformation and reluctance to use contraceptive methods. In many communities, discussing family planning openly is considered inappropriate, which further perpetuates myths and misunderstandings about contraception (World Health Organization (WHO)) (World Health Organization (WHO)).
- Religious Influences: Religious beliefs are crucial in shaping attitudes toward family planning in the Middle East. Some religious interpretations discourage the use of contraception, promoting large families as a cultural and spiritual ideal. Engaging religious leaders and communities in discussions about the health and economic benefits of family planning is essential to overcoming these barriers (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Middle East Institute).
- Healthcare Infrastructure: Many Middle Eastern countries face challenges related to inadequate healthcare infrastructure. In rural and remote areas, healthcare facilities are often scarce, and there is a need for more trained healthcare professionals. This limits the availability and accessibility of family planning services, particularly for women in underserved communities (Jordan Times) (USAID).
- Economic Constraints: Economic barriers also significantly limit access to family planning. High costs associated with contraceptives and healthcare services can be prohibitive for many families. Additionally, funding for family planning programs is often insufficient, leading to stockouts and limited-service provision. Economic instability and regional conflicts further exacerbate these issues (Population Institute) (Middle East Institute).
- Restrictive Policies: In some Middle Eastern countries, restrictive policies and regulations hinder the availability and distribution of contraceptives. Legal barriers may include restrictions on the import and sale of certain contraceptives and limitations on who can provide family planning services. These policies can prevent individuals from accessing the full range of contraceptive options (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Population Institute).
- Lack of Comprehensive Education: Comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education is often lacking in Middle Eastern countries. Without proper education, individuals may not be aware of their contraceptive options or understand how to use them effectively. Incorporating family planning education into school curricula and community programs is vital for increasing awareness and acceptance (UN Women).
While the challenges to family planning in the Middle East are significant, efforts are underway by several governments and civil society organizations in various countries across the MENA region to address these issues. These initiatives aim to improve access to family planning services, promote comprehensive education, and engage communities in open discussions about reproductive health. The ongoing work provides hope that the region can make meaningful progress towards achieving its family planning goals, ultimately enhancing gender equality and economic mobility.
