Updating Priorities for Research & Innovation
The goal of this study is to identify, prioritise, and validate the most pressing research gaps within the field of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in humanitarian crises.
The study, funded by Elrha and implemented by Avicena and the University of Geneva’s Centre of Humanitarian Studies, will inform future investments on research on SRHR in humanitarian crises.
A structured, multi-phase approach is being implemented, including: conducting a literature review, engaging in consultations with global and regional SRHR experts, validating regional research priorities through a global survey, and disseminating tailored recommendations to guide donors, including Elrha, in shaping future calls for proposals.
The study will include the following SRHR topics:
- Family planning / Contraception
- Antenatal, Perinatal & Postnatal care (including PMTCT)
- Safe abortion / Post-abortion care
- Obstetric fistula and other sequelae of obstetric complications
- Sexual health and wellbeing
- Sexually transmitted infections (inc. HIV), and prevention of future infertility
- Comprehensive sexuality education
- Cancers of reproductive system (inc. prevention measures).
Gender-based violence (GBV) and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) are excluded as primary outcomes (as per Elrha’s request for a separate focused exercise). However, related research will be included if there is overlap with other SRHR areas, such as maternal mortality or morbidity due to FGM, or lack of access to care because of FGM-related stigma. Infertility treatment is excluded, but prevention is included. Menstrual hygiene, categorized under water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), is also excluded.
The study is ongoing, with the literature review continuing as experts submit reports and papers sharing the results of relevant research that evaluates interventions on the topics listed above.
The consultation period is planned to run through to mid-September 2024 and final dissemination planned in the first quarter of 2025.
The proposed outcomes of the study include:
- A detailed and up-to-date mapping of the existing research landscape in the field of SRHR in humanitarian crises (excluding gender-based violence and menstrual hygiene).
- A globally validated ranking of research topics, reflecting consensus among stakeholders on the most critical areas needing further investigation. The research priorities will be presented as relevant from the global and regional perspectives.
- Increased engagement and alignment of SRHR research priorities within the global SRHR in humanitarian crises community of practice on what is needed by implementation science.