Research Report: The Digital Transformation and the Right to Health of Young Adults in Bangladesh and Colombia

DHRP, University of Warwick

The article investigates how digital transformation affects the right to health of young adults in Bangladesh and Colombia. Through a community-engaged study, it focuses on digital access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and HIV-related information, emphasising both opportunities and challenges.

Key insights include:

– Digital platforms improve health information access but exacerbate inequalities for marginalised groups.

– Social media influencers play a vital role in health communication for youth.

– Key challenges include misinformation, data privacy concerns, and persistent stigma, especially for LGBTQ+ communities and people living with HIV.

– Limited government regulation and lack of comprehensive digital health strategies hinder equitable access.

– Young adults emphasise the need for inclusive digital health policies and greater community engagement in digital health governance.

The study underscores the dual potential of digital health transformation: empowering young adults while risking their rights without robust governance. Collaborative policymaking and targeted strategies are essential to address challenges and realise digital health’s full potential for equity and inclusivity.

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