The European Parliament adopted by 334 votes to 327, with 35 abstentions, an alternative motion for resolution tabled by the EPP and ECR groups on Sexual Health and Reproductive Rights.
The resolution tabled by the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality was rejected in plenary. The text was initially tabled in October 2013 but was referred back to the committee for further discussion. The Committee on Women's Rights then made adjustments to the text without altering the actual substance and re-tabled it for a vote at the December session. However, this text fell when the EPP-ECR alternative resolution was adopted. The text noted that International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action gives a definition of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).
The resolution also noted that the formulation and implementation of policies on SRHR and on sexual education in schools is a competence of the Member States.
It noted that, even though it is a competence of the Member States to formulate and implement policies on health and on education, the EU can contribute to the promotion of best practices among Member States.
It should be noted that another alternative motion for resolution tabled by the EFD group was also rejected in plenary by 548 votes to 95, with 48 abstentions.