Session 1: Key definitions and concepts.

• Author: Nyamweya, Pauline
• Position: ADVOCACY TRAINING MANUAL: SEXUAL REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH RIGHTS

Objectives

By the end of this session, the participants will have an understanding of:

* the definition of advocacy

* definitions of the terms sex, gender, sexuality, sexual health, and reproductive health and the difference between sex and gender;

* the biological, social, cultural, economic, gender, and political factors that increase the SRHR vulnerability of men, women and adolescent girls at various life stages;

* their beliefs and values about issues related to SRHR and will share the diversity of opinions within the group. Participants will appreciate how their own beliefs/values influence their attitudes regarding SRHR and how these might impact their work;

* ways to remain neutral while advocating for SRHR, even if they have beliefs and values that differ from those of the target groups.

Time

90 minutes

Materials

* Participant Handout B.1 and B.2

* flipchart paper

* markers

* masking tape

* a collection of background information about the SRHR situation in the local context

Advance Preparation

* Review Participant Handout B.1 and B.2

* Trainers will need to assess the participant's level of knowledge regarding advocacy and SRHR prior to structuring this exercise. Trainers will also need to supply the participants with factual information about SRHR trends and patterns in the local context from local sources of information such as ministries of health, research studies, nongovernmental organizations that focus on SRHR, or other local groups.

* It is best if participants receive the background information before the workshop so they can familiarize themselves with the content. If this is not feasible, give the background information to the participants at the beginning of the workshop so they can read it in their spare time.

* Prepare five pieces of flipchart paper by writing one of the following signs on them "Advocacy", "Sex", "Gender", "Reproductive Health" and "Sexual Health".

* Post the flipcharts on one large wall, a few body lengths apart.

* Arrange the training room so that there is adequate open space for participants to assemble near the flipcharts.

Key Ideas to Convey

* Advocacy is both a science and an art. Advocacy is most effective when it is systematically planned. Successful advocates are able to articulate issues in ways that inspire and motivate others to take action. Successful advocates are skilled negotiators and consensus builders who look for opportunities to win modest but strategic policy gains while creating...