World Sexual Health Day is celebrated annually on September 4 to raise awareness about the importance of sexual health, rights, justice, and pleasure for all. The theme this year is Sexual Justice: What Can We Do?
The first World Sexual Health Day was celebrated in 2010 to bring people and organizations across the globe together to promote sexual health and wellbeing. This year, World Sexual Health Day has four focus areas that come under the theme of sexual justice.
Sexual rights
The key message is that sexual justice is necessary for everyone to enjoy sexual health, rights, and pleasure free from discrimination, fear, shame, or stigma.
What can we do?
- Destigmatise sexual health topics in everyday life and conversation
- Advocate for laws and policies that fight against discrimination
Sexual and reproductive rights
The key message is that sexual justice means protecting everyone’s right to make their own choices about their body and reproductive health, no matter who they are or where they live
What can we do?
- Use your voice in politics by contacting representatives, joining campaigns, or lobbying for change.
- Speak up when reproductive rights are threatened, whether in your own community or around the world.
- Support organisations and healthcare providers that ensure safe, legal access to abortion and contraception.
LGBTQ adolescents
The key message is that sexual justice means respecting and protecting the rights and identities of all LGBTQ+ people, especially trans, non-binary, gay and lesbian youth
What can we do?
- Speak out against homophobia, transphobia and all forms of discrimination
- Celebrate LGBTQ+ identities
- Create safe and affirming spaces
- Listen to LGBTQ+ youth and centre their voices
Access to information
The key message is that sexual justice means making sure everyone has access to accurate and evidence-based information about sexuality and health
What can we do?
- Share reliable resources
- Encourage open, respectful conversations across generations
- Start honest discussions at home, in classrooms, and online
Talk to Meic
Meic is the information, advice and advocacy helpline for children and young people across Wales. Contact Meic if you need to talk to someone about anything that’s worrying or upsetting you. It’s free, confidential and anonymous. The service is open from 8am – midnight every day, and you can contact them by phone, WhatsApp, text, or online chat.
