21 Million Adolescent Girls Pregnant Annually: A Call to Action for Global Leaders
In a staggering revelation, approximately 21 million adolescent girls in low- and middle-income countries become pregnant every year, perpetuating cycles of poverty and undermining their education, wellbeing, and national development. This alarming statistic is a stark reminder of the urgent need for global leaders to prioritize the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of women and girls.
The recent G20 Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, marked a significant milestone in the fight for SRHR. Parliamentarians from around the world converged to issue a united call to action, emphasizing the importance of centering women’s and girls’ health in the development agenda. They identified ten key priorities, including strengthening political will, affirming global commitments for women’s health, and addressing global health funding gaps.
Investing in SRHR is not only a moral imperative but also a sound economic strategy. Every dollar invested in family planning and maternal health in low- and middle-income countries yields a return of $8.40, improving workforce participation, family well-being, and social stability. However, despite this compelling evidence, gaps in access to contraception and maternal care persist, with 164 million women of reproductive age having an unmet need for contraception in 2021.
The G20, with its significant influence over the global economy and population, holds unparalleled power to catalyze investments and shape policy direction. Future G20 presidencies must prioritize women’s, children’s, and adolescent health issues, including SRHR, to unlock ripple effects across all development indicators. By doing so, they can reduce poverty and inequality, foster inclusive economic growth, and reinforce democratic institutions.
As Priyanka Chaturvedi, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Parliament of India, Mokhothu Makhalanyane, Chair of Chairs and Chairperson of Health Committee, Parliament of Lesotho, and Rajat Khosla, Executive Director, Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), emphasize, "A world where every woman and girl have the power to control her body is a world that is stronger, safer, and more resilient for everyone." The time for action is now, and the G20 must lead with courage, invest with foresight, and stand with parliamentarians and communities working tirelessly to ensure that no woman or girl is left behind.
