Our story
Being free to enjoy sexuality and relationships, with respect for each other, is vital to people’s wellbeing. This freedom is at the heart of Rutgers’ work.
“Everywhere in the world, young people face challenges in getting quality sexuality education and accessing contraception and safe abortion.”
What we do
Rutgers’ meets these real-life challenges head on. We combine work on the ground with research, advocacy and promoting public support.
Partnerships are vital to us. Together with partners, we work within countries and internationally to improve sexual rights, access to sexuality education and information, access to contraception – such as female condoms or the pill – and safe abortion services and to prevent sexual and gender-based violence.
Who we are
Rutgers has worked with young people on sexuality for more than 50 years. We are the Netherlands Centre on Sexuality. Read more about our history here.
For us, sexual and reproductive health and rights encompasses both physical, mental and social wellbeing. It is about the individual, their relationships and wider society. It is about pleasurable sexual relationships, self-esteem, trust and communication.
At Rutgers, we talk about sexuality openly, positively and practically. Our work is based on needs, evidence and experience and we dare to address real and sensitive issues.
“We include people in our work and show respect for everyone, whoever they are and wherever they come from. We involve young people in everything we do. ”
Rutgers is always looking to improve and innovate, striving for better ways to do things and new ways to connect with people. We are keen to strike up partnerships with like-minded organisations and agencies in the Netherlands, Europe and beyond who share our values.
Dance4Life and Rutgers
In 2021, Rutgers International and Dance4Life united. The two organisations have worked together for years to improve the sexual health and rights of young people worldwide. Our combined strengths and complementary visions and missions mean we can achieve greater impact together.