New research explores knowledge, access, and barriers to sexual and reproductive health for young people in Vanuatu

Port Vila, Vanuatu

The PGFBY project aims to reduce unplanned pregnancies and STIs in Ni-Vanuatu in hard-to-reach communities in Northern Vanuatu, and this report provides key insights to addressing these issues. 

Vanuatu is a nation made up of approximately 80 islands, with 63 permanently inhabited. While its geographical spread and traditional values influence the ability to provide appropriate sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, the Government of Vanuatu has been committed to improving access. As a result, communities have seen an improvement in SRH services, as well as a decline in adolescent birth rates. 

As most studies surrounding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) have focused on the most populous islands of Efate and Santo, this is the first study to explore these issues in Penama Province, where the highest adolescent birth rates in Vanuatu are reported, with 84 births per 1,000 women aged 15-19, significantly exceeding the national average of 46. The research sought to understand young people’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding safe sex, STIs, and family planning, as well as the barriers they face in accessing SRH information and services.

The study found that, while contraceptive methods (e.g., condoms, oral contraceptives, and injections) were physically available in most areas of Pentecost, significant social, cultural, and informational barriers prevented effective and wide use. These insights were garnered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with young people aged 14-34 years old, as well as key stakeholders in the community.

Savianah Raynes, the PGFBY Project Coordinator based in Santo, had this to say: “In some parts of Pentecost and across Vanuatu, women still face real challenges when it comes to their sexual and reproductive health. There are long distances to health facilities, not enough trained staff, cultural taboos that prevent open discussion, and limited access to trusted, clear information. And because of this, some women go through pregnancy, childbirth, and even miscarriage without proper care or guidance.

I’ve seen first-hand how women struggle with these challenges. But I’ve also seen their strength. I’ve met women who are determined to learn, to speak up, and to take control of their health and futures – if only given the chance. That’s why this report matters. It gives us evidence. It gives us the voices of women themselves. And it reminds us why our work in sexual and reproductive health is so important. Because when women are informed, supported, and empowered, whole communities benefit.

This work is not just about services. It’s about dignity, choice, and equality. It’s about making sure no woman – no matter how remote her village – feels left behind. So today, as we launch this report, I hope it becomes more than just a document. I hope it becomes a tool to drive real change. Let it guide our planning, our partnerships, and our commitment to improving the lives of women across Vanuatu.”

The PGFBY Phase 3 project seeks to address the identified barriers by amplifying the power of youth by increasing knowledge around SRHR, particularly knowledge around puberty, menstruation, and STIs. More difficult, perhaps, is addressing the concerns of confidentiality between patients and healthcare workers, which came through in participants’ views as a significant barrier to accessing SRH services. One of the focal areas of the project is capacity building for healthcare workers, including training Village Health Workers (VHWs) in non-clinical education, with the goal of improving the relationship between provider and patient. This will be supplemented by providing updated resources to better equip VHWs as they can work in remote areas with limited access to upskilling opportunities. By working both from a patient and provider perspective, the goal is to minimise the gaps in accessing SRH services.

Read the PGFBY research report