The INFO Project Blog

Reproductive health and family planning take on even keener importance in conflict zones, where the unique circumstances can intensify the problems facing populations just as they hamper systematic responses of assistance. A fellow at Johns Hopkins’ Center for Refugee and Disaster Response, Elizabeth Crowley, gave an interesting presentation to my class last week about the current work in conflict and post-conflict situations.  In addition to detailing the content of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for reproductive health in conflict situations, she spoke about the role that conflict is seen to play in the spread of HIV/AIDS and other STIs. The patterns are not identical across contexts, but current research suggests that conflict and displacement may actually slow the spread of HIV.

She also directed her audience to two short UNFPA films: Women, War and Health, and Reproductive Health Services for Displaced Persons: A Decade of Progress. They are as pertinent now as ever.

-Posted by Ted Alcorn