The URDR takes a holistic, multi-sectoral approach to health and wellbeing. Its researchers have years of experience around developing effective responses to the HIV & AIDS pandemic. Its research builds an evidence base for a human rights approach to sexuality, health and wellbeing with a focus on displaced populations, vulnerable adolescents and LGBT+ people. URDR research projects currently explore harmful practices, inclusion and diversity, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and issues of disability.

Recent relevant research includes:
• A research report for Girls Not Brides exploring the underlying drivers that can perpetuate religious leader resistance to ending child marriage and offering a number of positive strategies for change that are being carried out by organisations worldwide in this area.

• A study funded by the UK Government, documenting good practices around how five large development organisations in multiple contexts tackle harmful practices such as son preference, FGM/C and child marriage in partnership with faith leaders. Outputs include a synthesis report and policy briefs.

• A collaborative study based at Stellenbosch University, South Africa with women students and staff. It explores and documents women students’ experiences to better understand the drivers of sexual violence on university campuses. This project pilots new feminist methodologies. URDR outputs that show the urgent need for this research include journal articles, media articles and discussion pieces.

“Human development, as an approach, is concerned with advancing the richness of human life, rather than the richness of the economy in which human beings live, which is only a part of it.” – Amartya Sen