On September 4, 2024, the world will once again come together to observe World Sexual Health Day (WSHD), a day dedicated to promoting sexual health and well-being worldwide. Launched in 2010 under the leadership of then-President Rosemary Coates of Australia and the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS), World Sexual Health Day has grown into a global movement. Its mission is clear: to foster greater social awareness and dialogue around sexual health, grounded in a human rights framework as outlined in the landmark Declaration of Sexual Rights established 25 years ago. This year’s theme, “Positive Relationships,” invites us to reflect on the qualities that define and nurture healthy connections in every aspect of our lives.

The Origins and Importance of World Sexual Health Day

World Sexual Health Day was born from a desire to break down the taboos and fears that have long surrounded discussions of sexuality. The inaugural theme, “Let’s talk about it,” set the stage for a global conversation that has only grown louder and more inclusive with each passing year. This conversation isn’t just about sex; it’s about recognizing and celebrating the full spectrum of human connections. It’s about dismantling stigma, fostering inclusivity, and embracing the diversity of sexual experiences.

Sexual health, as defined by WAS, requires “a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination, and violence.” This perspective places sexual health within a broader framework of human rights, emphasizing the importance of dignity, respect, and autonomy in all relationships.

Positive Relationships: Beyond the Surface

This year’s theme, Positive Relationships, encourages us to look beyond the surface of what relationships typically signify. It reminds us that relationships are not solely about romantic or sexual connections; they encompass the entire spectrum of how we relate to others and to ourselves. From friendships and family bonds to the relationships we have with trusted adults and even our relationship with ourselves, positive relationships are built on the foundation of respect, kindness, and mutual support.

A positive relationship is one that makes space for individuality while also fostering a sense of belonging and connection. It’s a bond where people feel safe, heard, and valued. Importantly, positive relationships are characterized by qualities such as kindness, respect, comfort, and support. They are spaces where individuals can express themselves freely without fear of judgment or harm.

Teaching Positive Relationships

One of the key components of celebrating World Sexual Health Day 2024 is educating people, especially young people, about the importance of positive relationships. Teaching points include understanding boundaries, recognizing when to speak up, and developing problem-solving and communication skills. It’s crucial to convey that relationships are not just about navigating the ups and downs of being with others but also about cultivating a healthy relationship with oneself. Children and young people should be encouraged to recognize positive relationships not just in their romantic lives but also in their friendships, family ties, and self-perception.

It’s about modeling behaviors that foster healthy relationships—practicing active listening, demonstrating healthy conflict resolution, and showing appreciation for those around us. This modeling can happen in the classroom, at home, and in everyday interactions. By demonstrating respect, practicing self-care, and maintaining open communication, we can provide a blueprint for what positive relationships look like.

The Broader Impact of Positive Relationships

Emphasizing positive relationships goes beyond individual well-being; it has profound societal implications. When people engage in relationships that are rooted in respect and care, the ripple effects extend to communities and societies at large. A culture that values positive relationships is one where everyone feels empowered to express themselves, to seek help when needed, and to support others in their journey.

This World Sexual Health Day, let’s take the opportunity to reflect on the relationships in our lives. Are we practicing kindness, respect, and open communication? Are we setting healthy boundaries and nurturing our connections with others and ourselves? In embracing positive relationships, we create a world where everyone’s sexual health and well-being are recognized as fundamental human rights.

So, as we mark World Sexual Health Day 2024, let’s commit to fostering positive relationships in all their forms. Let’s teach, model, and celebrate the values that underpin healthy connections—because at the heart of sexual health is the simple truth that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and loved.