BY MARELYS VALENCIA (Granma International staff writer)
THE World Sexology Congress, to be held in Havana, will mix science, tradition and daily life in what is hoped will be a "no-holds-barred" meeting, according to World Association of Sexology (WAS) President Marc Ganem from France.
Some 71 themes dealing with sexuality will be discussed in symposiums, roundtables, workshops and courses- from the usual topics to the most current and serious ones such as AIDS, violence and child abuse.
In a press conference, Mariela Castro, president of this 16th Congress, explained that current research by outstanding Cuban experts on sexually transmitted diseases and the refusal of adolescents and young people to use condoms will be debated.
In the 2001 meeting that took place in Paris, WAS dedicated two symposiums to AIDS. "We must continue giving space to everybody who can offer something on the theme, as the only two weapons we can rely on are information and condoms," highlighted Dr. Ganem, who considers that it is necessary to transmit a message of hope - not one of death - to young people.
The 1997 Congress in Valencia signified a change of direction for WAS, with the theme of sexual rights. Sexuality went beyond the scientific and began to be part of discussions related to social and political life. One year later, at the Hong Kong event, a list of sexual rights was drafted; thoughts on the future continued at the Paris meeting. The March 2003 event in Cuba, whose slogan will be "Sexuality and human development: discourse and action," could also set guidelines.
"People should not be detached from their daily reality and socioeconomic milieu. This is why there will not only be scientists at the Havana Congress but also decision-makers and politicians, plus representatives from non-governmental and international organizations. Our idea is to consider that people need a dignified existence in order to enjoy sexual health, and this discourse should reach the political
sphere," averred Mariela Castro, who is also director of the
National Center for Sexual Education.
In Dr. Ganem's opinion, the 2003 meeting will have a high level of scientific discussion due to WAS links with different very prestigious associations in this field.
One of the most awaited moments in Havana will be the international cuisine aphrodisiac dinner on the event's second day. Well-known chef Gilberto Smith, currently launching his book on Cuban aphrodisiac foods, will be responsible for the dinner.
Cuba's Sexual Education Program surfaced after women in the 1960s demanded a support program for children's education and family guidance in that sphere. The island has followed broad-based course, taking the best from different schools of thought - for example, the Germans, whose ideas have influenced Cuba for some time now. A review of past methods is currently being carried out, in search of new theoretical
bases with a critical vision and in line with national characteristics.