Launched in Copenhagen, at a High-Level Consultation Conference on Improvement of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of Young People in Europe, on the 12 December 2006, Sexuality education in Europe - A reference guide to policies and practices aims to systematically and coherently bring together information on sexuality education policies and programmes across Europe.
It aims to give advocates the ability to make unbiased arguments for comprehensive sexuality education in schools, and to enable them to quickly draw on what’s happening, and what’s working, in neighbouring countries in order to strengthen these arguments.
A review of available data describes the situation in more quantitative terms and that can be used to give at-a-glance data and comparisons between countries. The final section contains individual country reports providing all the information currently available on sexuality education in 26 European countries.
Conclusions
The guide concludes that despite the wide variety of methods and policies regarding sexuality education across Europe, there are many similarities, both in provision and in how obstacles and opposition were addressed.
Each country’s unique experience adds something to the debate about how best to provide sexuality education, and how advocates can ensure that young people are able to exercise their right to sexuality education.
No evidence was found of a link between provision of sexuality education and premature sexual behaviour. On the contrary, accurate and scientifically validated information about the prevention of disease and unwanted pregnancy enables young people to make informed choices and protect their health.
Finally the guide recommends that sexuality education programmes should not be seen in isolation, but as important components in broader initiatives to improve the health and well-being of all young people.
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