Impacts of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Misinformation in Digital Spaces on Human Rights Protection and...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Human Rights Law
• Digital Communication

Background:

• Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are crucial for individual autonomy and global well-being.
• Misinformation in SRHR undermines evidence-based decisions, accountability, and perpetuates social injustices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map and synthesize evidence on the forms, spread, and impacts of SRHR misinformation in digital spaces.
• To analyze implications for human rights protection and promotion.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of scientific papers and gray literature.
• Guided by JBI population, exposure, and outcomes framework.
• Thematic analysis mapped against human rights standards (equality, availability, accessibility, quality, informed decision-making, privacy, participation, accountability).

Main Results:

• SRHR misinformation impacts individuals' beliefs, behaviors, and health decisions.
• It reinforces discriminatory norms, excludes marginalized groups, and disrupts health services.
• Digital platform design and policies facilitate misinformation spread while restricting credible content.

Conclusions:

• SRHR misinformation in digital spaces is a systemic issue with broad human rights implications.
• Urgent need for integrated, rights-based approaches in research, policy, and interventions.