Dr. Kristen Mark Attends Inaugural Meeting of the World Sexual Health Assembly
In the lush, green hills of the Douro Valley in Portugal, an important next step toward sexual justice was taken. Many scientists, researchers, scholars, teachers, authors, and activists came together to attend the first World Sexual Health Assembly (WSHA) on September 5, 2025, at the University of Porto. Among those present was Kristen Mark, PhD, MPH, a professor and the Joycelyn Elders Endowed Chair in Sexual Health Education at the Eli Coleman Institute for Sexual and Gender Health.
"It was really energizing being in a room with some of the most influential organizations on health in the world and seeing them stand up for sexual health, rights, and justice,” said Dr. Mark.
Building on decades of progress in sexual health, rights and justice, the WSHA gathered leaders and organizations from across the globe to address the increasing attacks on sexual health services, the sexual rights of marginalized and vulnerable people, and the pursuit of sexual justice.
Representatives of over forty organizations participated in the World Sexual Health Assembly, where they signed the Porto Proclamation on Sexual Health, Rights and Justice. The proclamation represents a joint commitment to stand together to advance and defend sexual health, rights, and justice for all people.
“There are so many people doing everything they can to make the world a more sexually just place,” shared Dr. Mark. “As sexual and reproductive health rights face escalating global threats, the inaugural Assembly and Porto Proclamation represent a historic moment of unity. For the first time, global sexual health leaders are aligning around a shared commitment to rights, pleasure, health, and justice for everyone. To be part of that was incredible."
