Abstract
The article highlights the potential of sexual education programmes for adolescents and young adults and emphasises the central importance of qualified professionals for their professional implementation. Sexual education supports young people on their path to self-determined sexuality and identity development, strengthens sexual and reproductive health, has a preventive effect against violence, and promotes a responsible approach to sexuality. In addition, it contributes significantly to gender equality and inclusion by critically questioning social norms, power relations and taboos and actively counteracting discrimination and exclusion. The article argues that the professionalisation of sexual education is essential to ensure the provision of high-quality sexual education programmes in line with professional ethical standards. This requires sound specialist knowledge, reflective, communication and action skills, and an attitude characterised by respect and openness.
Keywords: sexual education, self-determination, sexual health, sexual rights, professionalisation