Re-worlding reproduction as a call to action

Abstract

Inspired by decolonial theorist Sabelo Ndlovu-Gatsheni's notion of 'reworlding' and his use of the concept to reconsider Western epistemes and ways of 'being in the world', we argue for the importance of 're-worlding reproduction' in future work on health systems and reproductive health. Current approaches to reproductive health have failed to bring the thriving and wellbeing they once promised to the 'marginalised majority' in the world. Re-worlding reproductive health requires: 1) the decolonisation and Indigenisation of reproductive rights; 2) an ongoing process to contest coloniality and reverse its ongoing effects; 3) the right to define our own realities; and 4) imagining into action a world fit for our descendants. Future knowledge-making in relation to reproductive health should draw upon diverse epistemes and inclusive research methods, and address disparities in academic publishing. People seeking care within reproductive health settings often experience racism and structural violence, compounded by poverty, illiteracy, patriarchy, heterosexism and global economic stratification. Reproduction gives rise to future generations for whose survival we need to address environmental pollution and climate change as integral to a thriving future.