Lessons learned from prior conflicts concerning the post-conflict needs of women in terms of family planning

Osman Sohaila, 2023
Title:Supporting Family Planning Needs in Post-Conflict Settings Family planning (FP) represents a narrative of female liberation, encompassing bodily autonomy and reproductive decision-making. Achieving complete reproductive empowerment holds intrinsic value and offers economic advantages for individuals and entire societies. Additionally, contraceptive use reduces maternal mortality and morbidity by preventing high-risk pregnancies and unwanted pregnancies that might otherwise result in unsafe abortions. FP needs persist throughout conflict, becoming particularly urgent as women seek to mitigate the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth, especially during periods of displacement. Conflict, arising from ideological clashes, territorial disputes, and other causes, significantly impacts FP and reproductive health services. Recent data highlights a surge in conflict prevalence. In 2024, it is estimated that one in six individuals have been exposed to conflict. These conflicts disrupt healthcare systems, cause medical supply shortages, displace healthcare workers, and hinder access to food and clean water. The insecurity and restricted movement further exacerbate these issues, affecting reproductive health services. This research focuses on understanding the FP needs of women in conflict and post-conflict settings in the Middle East and North Africa region, aiming to support Palestinian women in post-conflict settings. The goal of this research is to identify the unique FP needs of women in post-conflict areas and generate practical recommendations to help them overcome challenges. By evaluating existing evidence, the research aims to guide interventions that improve access to FP services, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and community stability. The review revealed significant variability in the use of modern contraceptives across conflict-affected regions, with many women facing barriers such as cost, distance, and unavailability of preferred methods. Economic instability and challenging living conditions often facilitate FP use, but high unmet needs persist due to these barriers. A notable finding is the "child replacement effect," where the need to replace children lost to conflict increases fertility preferences among many women. High fertility rates in Palestine serve as a form of resistance, with both the occupying and occupied groups using demographic growth to assert control. Furthermore, in times of insecurity, forced displacement, economic hardships, overcrowded living conditions and disruption of the schooling system, the prevalence of child marriage significantly increases. The research underscores the need for tailored FP interventions that address the unique challenges of post-conflict settings. Community-based programs and male involvement in FP education are crucial for expanding women's choices and improving service uptake. It is crucial to dispel the misconception of potential infertility with modern contraceptive use and to make FP information more accessible. This could be done by using digital technology providing trusted evidence-based and acceptable information. Additionally, digital technology can aid in empowering women, enabling them to make more informed decisions regarding the use of FP. Moreover, this can be a helpful means of coping with mobility restrictions. Finally, integrating FP services with broader health initiatives ensures comprehensive care and better health outcomes. Improved FP services can lead to better health, economic opportunities, and overall well-being for women and their families in post-conflict regions. By addressing the FP needs of women, this research promotes gender equality and empowers women, contributing to community rebuilding and long-term stability. This research provides valuable insights and practical recommendations for supporting FP needs in post-conflict settings. It aims to inform policies and programs that enhance FP services in Palestine, drawing from lessons learned in other conflict-affected areas. Through better access to FP services, we can improve the lives of women and their communities, fostering a healthier and more stable society.

Promotor Ines Keygnaert
Opleiding Global Health
Kernwoorden Family planning post-conflict