Using interactive community-based theatre to explore social barriers - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Using interactive community-based theatre to explore social barriers to accessing reproductive health services Jocelyn DeJong| American University of Beirut

Main findings The Jordanian government has: • Committed to the SDGS to provide universal access to SRH • Developed a national strategy on SRH • Committed to a regional UNFPA plan to integrate SRH into primary health care Yet data present in Jordan provides only a partial picture on Jordan • Surveys ocus on ‘ever married’ women 15 to 49 and not a full range of SRH issues Uniqueness of our study • Whole population approach: who is left out? • Used community based interactive theatre across country Found barriers to seeking services for all but married • Lack of knoweldge on SRH - On SRH concept - On services – what, where, and who - On SRH issues • Culture of shame

Possible contribution to SRHR policy Increase access to SRH information and services by reducing/eliminating these barriers to accessing services (both preventive and curative) Priority recommendations are: • Review and adapt international guidelines/lists of best practices to raise community awareness and thereby demand for health services • Conduct targeted surveys - relevant questions for different groups not currently included in surveys (e.g. men, unmarried adolescents, women beyond reproductive age etc.) • Use innovative means such as interactive theatre to engage diverse population groups