A bill on reproductive and sexual health is close to passage in the Philippines. One of the responsibilities it places on the state is the guarantee of ”pleasurable sexual experiences.” First, the state guarantees ”sexual health.: From SB 2865:
The State shall address and seek to eradicate discriminatory practices, laws and policies that infringe on a person’s exercise of sexual health and reproductive health and rights.
Part of sexual health is the right to pleasurable experiences. From the definitions section of SB 2865:
Sexual Health – refers to a state of physical, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free from coercion, discrimination and violence.
I am not sure how the state can guarantee pleasurable sexual experiences. But I have no doubt that there are many imaginative and radical ways in which this putative “right” could be interpreted. Efforts to remove the clause from the bill have failed.