Research shows that more than half of young people in Sri Lanka lack the knowledge required to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

The sexual and reproductive choices of young people can have a cascading effect on their human rights. Adolescent pregnancy for example can lead girls to drop out of school, which prevents girls from exercising their right to education, and poor understanding of gender equality can lead to discrimination and coercion.

To ensure that young people have access to accurate information to make responsible decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, UNFPA:

- Works with the Government of Sri Lanka to effectively deliver age-appropriate Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE)

- Recognizes the need for youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services for young people in Sri Lanka

- Launched Road to Adulthood – a self-learning tool for young people to access information on reproductive health and rights

- Engages policymakers to address gaps in Comprehensive Sexuality Education

- Engages youth at the provincial, regional and national levels and support independent and sustainable organizations led by young people, especially marginalized adolescents to advocate for their human rights.

  UNFPA’s efforts enable young people in Sri Lanka to develop the skills,  knowledge and support needed to make informed decisions about their bodies and lives.