Bridging Faith and Health: Religious Diversity and Sexual and Reproductive Rights in Catalonia

This presentation explores the intersection of religious diversity and the management of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) within Catalonia. Specifically, it aims to bridge two fields often studied separately: the management of religious diversity and the governance of sexual and reproductive rights. The concept of SRH has been central to global development policies since the late 1940s, with international bodies such as the UN and WHO playing a pivotal role in its advancement. At a national level, in Spain SRH gained formal recognition in 2010 with the introduction of national legislation that expanded rights, promoted sexual education, and included SRH in health science curricula while emphasizing the training of professionals in this field.

Simultaneously, Catalonia has experienced significant diversification in its religious landscape. For instance, according to the latest data from the Map of Religions elaborated by the General Directorate of Religious Affairs (body of the Generalitat de Catalunya), the region now hosts 7,291 places of worship representing 15 different faith traditions. In response, institutions have developed strategies to actively manage religious diversity, offering training programs to enhance understanding in areas such as healthcare, where religion can play a key role in shaping beliefs and practices.

Drawing on policy documents analysis and interviews with experts in both fields, this presentation will highlight the key debates and challenges surrounding the integration of religious diversity into policies on sexual and reproductive rights, with a particular focus on the use of assisted reproduction techniques (ART).