Realising the sexual and reproductive health and rights of the girl child in Lesotho

Abstract

This study centres on the Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of the girl child in Lesotho, aiming to identify barriers and provide recommendations for improvement within the national legal and policy framework. It assesses international, regional, and national legal frameworks, revealing shortcomings in their implementation. The study highlights the impact of cultural norms like virginity examinations and early marriages on SRHR, as well as issues related to access to reproductive health services, Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), and gender disparities. The methodology involves an extensive online search using relevant keywords on scholarly websites such as Google Scholar, Pretoria University Law Press (PULP) and Anna’s Archive, which were used to source internet material. Also, case studies analysis through i-story documentation was used. Consent for their documentation was obtained by reaching out to the Mosepele Foundation Development Forum (MFDF) via email and WhatsApp to obtain permission to document those i-stories, with a strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality and anonymity throughout the research process.

The study draws on Social Learning Theory and the Routine Activity Theory, supplemented by looking at Human Rights violations through the lens of Adaptive the Resilience Paradigm to understand the complexities of SRHR challenges and why they persist. This study argues that Lesotho has not fully explored local remedies for realising the SRHR of the girl child, as findings indicate that even reporting SRHR violations remains problematic. The study develops a policy brief that could potentially lead to the drafting of SRHR legislation aligning with Human Rights standards and simultaneously prioritising the SRHR of the girl child Lesotho. Lessons learned from this research are envisioned to inform broader human rights democratisation efforts in Africa, emphasising holistic approaches, inclusivity, and education. It further gives recommendations for the international community, the government of Lesotho, and relevant stakeholders to promote holistic well-being within Lesotho's communities. This study identifies not only potential arguments that Lesotho may present but also furnishes legal defence strategies in support of these arguments. Lastly, the study explores its implications of literature, theory, methodology, practice, and policy, outlining a future research agenda while acknowledging both strengths and limitations. Thereafter, the study provides a comprehensive conclusion.