# Contributions of Civil Society Organizations to the Provision of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services to Vulnerable Populations in Latin America

## TL;DR

Civil society organizations in Latin America play a key role in providing sexual and reproductive health services to vulnerable populations, despite facing financial and political challenges.

## Contribution

The study provides an analytical overview of the organizational models and impact of 17 civil society organizations in five Latin American countries focused on SRH.

## Key findings

- Civil society organizations act as agents of equity and expert service providers in SRH for vulnerable populations.
- These organizations face financial and political challenges but are recognized for their adaptability and community impact.
- They fill critical service gaps and drive social change, requiring supportive policies and funding mechanisms.

## Abstract

The involvement of civil society organizations in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programs in Latin America began to expand during the health sector reforms era. These organizations have undergone significant changes over the decades, being able to collaborate with government agencies, the private sector and international agencies with the commitment to address the specific needs of vulnerable populations in the countries. We provide a synthesized and analytical description of the experiences of 17 civil organizations that carry out actions in the field of SRH in five Latin American countries. The aim is to understand the variety of organizational models, the populations served, the funding, and the activities they perform in the SRH field. A multi-case study focused on 17 organizations that primarily carry actions on SRH, especially for vulnerable populations in Latin America: Colombia, Guatemala, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru. Data collection was carried out in two stages: gathering preliminary information and semi-structured interviews with 55 members of the organizations. The analysis was based on categories constructed prior to the process. These are described through four categories: Characteristics of target populations; Relationship with government structure and other interested actors; Activities Carried Out in Response to SRH; Achievements and scope of civil organizations in sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights. Civil society organizations in the studied countries are essential within health systems, acting as agents of equity, expert service providers, and with a strong commitment to their target populations. In this study, they encountered several financial and political challenges. Their ability to adapt and the recognition they receive from the populations they serve stands out. Civil organizations not only fill significant gaps in the provision of SRH services but also become catalytic forces for social change and equity. It is essential to develop funding mechanisms and support policies that allow their continuous operation, expansion, and informed participation in decision-making processes in Latin America.