(SRHR) - Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

With the generous support from Global Affairs Canada, and under their “Resilient Health Systems for All” commitment for International Development, Horizons and our Guatemalan partner, PIES de Occidente (PIES), are working together on a project to support the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of Indigenous Maya women and girls in the highlands of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says one of the biggest problems in Guatemala’s healthcare system is that Indigenous and rural communities don’t get the services they need. Public health services often don’t speak Indigenous languages or understand Indigenous ways of thinking about health. Because of this, many people don’t get proper care—and the consequences are serious. For example, Indigenous women in Guatemala are about twice as likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth as non-Indigenous women.

Indigenous people in Guatemala have faced a long history of racism, violence, and being left out of decision-making. This has led to widespread poverty that passes from one generation to the next. This project will help reduce poverty by improving the health and well-being of Indigenous people in Quetzaltenango, especially those who face poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to basic services.

The project will help more Indigenous (especially Maya K’iche and Mam) people learn about and use health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, while always respecting and following the Maya worldview, which sees the body, the Earth, and life as deeply connected. By working within this understanding, the project will help improve access to health services, reduce harmful stigma, and support women in making decisions about their own bodies and health. These efforts don’t just save lives—they will transform systems.

This 7-year project will train health workers, traditional midwives, community health promoters, and medical students by blending medical knowledge with Maya cultural traditions to improve care and reach the most marginalized members of the population. 

This project will break down barriers surrounding sexual and reproductive health (SRH) through workshops, campaigns, and community activities, to raise awareness and give families and young people—especially girls—knowledge and skills to make their own decisions about the prevention and dangers of early pregnancy, early marriage, and gender-based violence. The project will also organize and facilitate awareness workshops for men focused on positive masculinity, life planning, and their role in gender justice.

Together, we are building a future where women and girls are safe, supported, and empowered.