Gender Justice in Healthcare Access: A Comparative Study of Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights

Abstract

Gender justice in healthcare access remains a critical global challenge, particularly in the domain of sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR). Despite international commitments and human rights frameworks, profound gender-based disparities persist in access to quality, affordable, and respectful healthcare services. This research paper examines gender justice in healthcare access through a comparative analysis of sexual and reproductive health rights across selected regions, including low-, middle-, and high-income contexts. Using a qualitative doctrinal and comparative methodology, the study analyzes legal frameworks, health policies, institutional practices, and socio-cultural barriers affecting access to SRHR. The findings reveal that structural inequalities, gender norms, economic marginalization, and legal restrictions disproportionately affect women, transgender persons, and gender-diverse populations. The paper argues that achieving gender justice in healthcare requires rights-based, inclusive, and intersectional policy reforms that integrate health systems with legal accountability mechanisms. The study contributes to the interdisciplinary discourse on gender justice, sexuality, and health by proposing actionable recommendations for policymakers, healthcare institutions, and justice systems.