Promoting equity and social justice: analysing the global impact of educational laws on sex education in Spain and the United Kingdom

Abstract

Purpose: Government’s role and sex education are vital in promoting inclusivity and sexual health. To understand the impact that the legislation has had on sex education, it is necessary to evaluate it at the different training levels.

Design/methodology/approach: The method used is a critical review aimed at comparing educational and state legislation and its impact on Sex Education in Spain and the United Kingdom.

Findings: In most countries the compulsory contents in the curriculum are oriented to sexually transmitted infections and contraception. Nonetheless, this approach is deemed inadequate and restrictive, failing to cope with the challenges posed by globalization, including the increased spread of sexual infection. Legislative constraints hinder the comprehensive implementation of public health education strategies and social justice concerning sexuality.

Research limitations/implications: Scope may miss legislative nuances and regional differences.

Practical implications: Findings emphasize comprehensive sex education to tackle modern challenges and to urge policy makers to incorporate these insights.

Social implications: Enhanced sex education laws foster health equity that will contribute to reducing violence and improving positive attitudes and behaviours.

Originality/value: Insufficient analysis exists on the effects of ministry measures in sex education, connecting health, well-being and sustainability. This underscores the urgency of researching the legislative, educational and societal consequences, enabling interventions to address negative sexual attitudes and behaviours, including gender violence, biases against sexual diversity, emotional challenges, sexual freedom and health problems, based on respect for Human Sexual Rights.