World Association for Sexual Health

The Trump administration has terminated dozens of NIH research grants, disproportionately targeting studies related to LGBTQ+ health, reproductive rights, and gender research. Among the terminated grants: - Social Networks & Policy Effects on Sexual & Gender Minorities in the U.S. South - Health Outcomes of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy - Intersectional Discrimination & Sexual Health in Young Black MSM - HIV Prevention & Mental Health Support for LGBTQ+ Communities These cuts threaten critical research into public health, HIV/AIDS prevention, and gender-based disparities. What can you do? Share this issue, advocate for research protections, and stay informed on how these policies impact global sexual health initiatives. Read the full list of terminated grants here:

We would also like to share UNFPA's "Girls, Youth, Women and Feminist Movements Against Female Genital Mutilation: A Practical Guide for Frontliners", a first-of-its-kind resource to support activists, NGOs, and community leaders in ending FGM. ?? What’s Inside? ? Jargon-free explanations of movement-building strategies. ? The Four Stages of FGM Movements – step-by-step guidance for change. ? Five essential tools for tracking impact, engaging stakeholders, and measuring progress. Download the guide now and help empower frontline activists in the fight against FGM.

Read this week's newsletter, which includes the WAS 2025 webinar replay, an important UNFPA Guide, and information about NIH Grant Terminations.

WAS is encouraged by the emergence of sexual health programs in regions affected by armed conflict and commends colleagues worldwide who continue to provide vital services and secure funding for much-needed initiatives in these challenging environments. One such effort is the Sexual Life Recovery Counseling Cabinet in Kyiv, which offers free counseling for military personnel and veterans facing physical or psychological trauma from combat. This initiative is part of the ‘RECOVERY. Sexual Life’ educational program, within the RECOVERY national network of rehabilitation centers for wounded soldiers in Ukraine, founded by Viktor and Olena Pinchuk to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Treatment is provided by Dr. Borys Vornyk. Launch Date: February 10, 2025 Location: Kyiv, Volodymyrska St. 43, Dialog Hub? Access & Services ? Who can benefit? Military personnel and veterans, including ATO/OOS participants, experiencing sexual health challenges due to combat-related injuries or PTSD. ? Support is available for loss of libido, intimacy concerns post-injury, PTSD-related sexual health issues, and relationship challenges. ? Register for a free consultation. Sessions are free, confidential, and require proof of combat service for the first visit. WAS stands in solidarity with healthcare professionals in conflict-affected areas and continues to advocate for sustainable, locally driven sexual health services worldwide.

We are pleased to announce Zahra Stardust, from Queensland University of Technology, Australia, as a speaker at the 27th Congress of the World Association for Sexual Health. Her session will explore the intersection of digital technology, sexual rights, and content moderation, addressing the challenges of censorship, criminalization, and advocacy for sex-positive law reform. Join this critical conversation at the WAS Congress in Brisbane, June 16–19, 2025. Register now: https://lnkd.in/dgTumanZ #WAS2025 #SexualHealthForAll #DigitalRights #GlobalCollaboration

Missed yesterday's webinar? We have the replay available for you now. - What to expect in Brisbane – program highlights, must-attend sessions, and networking opportunities. - Behind-the-scenes insights – how WAS 2025 is shaping global conversations in sexual health and rights. - Speakers and key themes – including the latest research and emerging issues.? Catch up on key insights from WAS 2025 Congress organizers and prepare to join us in Brisbane!

Read this week's newsletter covering the WAS 2025 webinar, speakers and visa arrangements for Brisbane.

Don’t miss this exclusive preview of the WAS 2025 Congress! ?? Date: March 20, 2025 ?? Time: 1:30 PM SAST Hosted by: ? Armin Ariana – Congress President ? Terry Humphreys – Vice Chair, WAS Scientific Committee ? Margaret Redelman – AOFS Public Officer ? Dr. Elna Rudolph – WAS President What you’ll get: ?? Behind-the-scenes insights into the Congress program ?? Key themes & must-attend sessions ?? How WAS 2025 is shaping global conversations in sexual health and rights Register now: https://lnkd.in/dzeZEQh4 #WAS2025

“We will work tirelessly to protect the safety, the dignity and the freedom of every woman and girl.” — Dr. Natalia Kanem, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director, speaking at the #CSW69 side event on advancing #GenderEquality through sexual and reproductive health and rights (#SRHR). #Beijing30 #GlobalGoals

Why #WAS2025 is a Must-Attend Event With just three months to go, the 27th WAS Congress in Brisbane (June 16–19, 2025) is shaping up to be one of the most important gatherings on sexual health, rights, justice, and pleasure. ? World-class speakers shaping the future of SRHR ? Groundbreaking research across clinical, educational, and advocacy fields ? Global networking with professionals from over 60 countries ? Dynamic panels & interactive workshops on emerging sexual health trends Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative global event. ?? Register now: https://lnkd.in/dgTumanZ #WAS2025