Meaningful youth engagement in a WHO guideline development process: case study of WHO abortion care guideline (2022)

Overview

Young people are disproportionately affected by unsafe abortion, yet their perspectives are often missing from research and policy. This gap limits the design of services that meet their needs. WHO’s guideline development process emphasizes evidence, equity, and stakeholder values, including youth voices. The 2022 Abortion Care Guideline integrated youth input through consultations and a youth-led convening, setting a precedent for meaningful engagement. This case study shows how co-creating solutions with young people can make sexual and reproductive health policies more inclusive, relevant, and transformative.