WHO’s Guidance on „Sexuality for Infants“ Sparks Outrage

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) has come under fire for its guidance on „sexuality for infants.“ The guidance, which was published on the WHO website, suggests that parents should talk to their children about sexuality from birth. The guidance has been criticized by some as being inappropriate and potentially harmful to children.

The Controversy

The controversy over the WHO guidance on „sexuality for infants“ centers around the idea that young children are not developmentally ready to understand or engage in discussions about sexuality. Critics argue that exposing children to sexual content at a young age could lead to confusion, anxiety, and even trauma.

The guidance recommends that parents talk to their children about „enjoyment and pleasure when touching one’s own body, early childhood masturbation, and same-sex relationships.“ Some have interpreted this as promoting sexual behavior among young children, which has sparked outrage among conservative groups.

The WHO Response

The WHO has defended its guidance on „sexuality for infants,“ stating that it is intended to help parents and caregivers provide age-appropriate information to children about their bodies and relationships. The organization has emphasized that the guidance is not meant to encourage sexual behavior among young children.

In a statement, the WHO said, „The guidance is intended to help parents and caregivers provide children with accurate information about their bodies and relationships, in a way that is age-appropriate and respectful of their dignity and rights. It is not intended to encourage sexual behavior among children, but rather to promote healthy relationships and positive attitudes towards sexuality.“

The controversy over the WHO guidance on „sexuality for infants“ highlights the ongoing debate over how and when children should be educated about sexuality. While some argue that children should be taught about their bodies and relationships from a young age, others believe that such discussions should be delayed until children are older and more developmentally ready. Ultimately, it is up to parents and caregivers to decide what is appropriate for their children, taking into account their individual needs and circumstances

Original article Teaser

Outrage Over WHO Guidance on “Sexuality for Infants”

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is under pressure to withdraw guidance for schools recommending that toddlers “ask questions about sexuality”, “explore gender identities” and learn about “enjoyment” of “early childhood masturbation”. The Telegraph has the story. The guidance says that “sexuality education starts from birth” and is described as a “framework for policy makers, educational and health authorities and specialists”. Its advice on how to “talk about sexual matters” with young children was aimed at policymakers across Europe, and was translated into several European languages and promoted at national and international events, according to the WHO. The document was also consulted by Welsh ministers who last year rolled out a mandatory sexual education syllabus to schools in Wales, and has led to a backlash from

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