EDITORIAL
This exciting edition of OPENPlan brings to you recent, high-quality research studies from offices across Plan International, all of which contribute to the evidence base under the area of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
The first article highlights findings from a qualitative study commissioned by Plan International Guinea-Bissau to inform the design of evidence-based programmes and influencing for ending child marriage. It explores perceptions on the causes and consequences of child marriage in Guinea-Bissau, particularly highlighting those of adolescent girls who are so often overlooked.
The second article summarises a report by Plan International Sweden drawing on recent literature on pregnancy among very young adolescents between the ages of 10-14 - a topic on which there is limited reliable evidence. This report identifies recommendations and potential ways forward to prevent and diminish the consequences of adolescent pregnancy.
The third article is on a research study on adolescent pregnancy and early marriage in Timor-Leste. This research sheds light on girls’ lived realities and uncovers the root causes leading to teenage pregnancy and early marriage in three municipalities of Timor-Leste, while offering solutions for prevention.
The fourth article highlights some of the preliminary findings of an exciting, multi-country research study on child, early and forced marriages and unions across Latin America and the Caribbean, commissioned by Plan International ROA. It brings to light the issue of informal unions, which is largely invisible in data. The full report is due to be launched in November.
We hope that you enjoy this edition of OPENPlan!
Amy Ashlee – Junior Researcher, Plan International Global Hub