FP2030 stands strongly against the erosion of people’s rights to a holistic spectrum of reproductive healthcare, as we have witnessed in the recent ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court on Dobbs v. Jackson. We are alarmed not only by what it means for people in the United States seeking abortions, but the possible extended impact on LGBTI rights and access to contraception. We are also acutely aware of what this ruling signals to people across the globe.
Sadly, we already know that this is the reality for countless women and girls: they would like to make decisions regarding their bodies and their futures, but too often the decision is made for them — whether by social or financial barriers, government policies, or other hurdles to get the care they need. This lack of bodily autonomy gravely undermines gender equality, economic growth, environmental sustainability, and political stability.
It’s unacceptable, and it’s why FP2030 and our global partnership of commitment makers are working towards a future where women and girls everywhere, including in the United States, can choose when or whether to have children, lead healthy lives, and live as equal partners in society. This Supreme Court opinion is at odds with U.S. human rights commitments as well as the mission and goals of our partnership. How are we going to achieve a future where everyone, everywhere, can make decisions for themselves about their reproductive health free of stigma, coercion, or legal barriers if we start chipping away at their basic reproductive rights?
The Dobbs decision does not change USAID policies and programming. The United States is the largest donor for family planning programs globally, and a leader in the sexual and reproductive health sector. We are heartened by statements from U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and USAID Administrator Samantha Power reaffirming the U.S. commitment to reproductive health and rights. We know from experience that changes in the U.S. commitment to comprehensive reproductive health care has significant impact on the availability of crucial health care services and women’s rights in low- and middle-income countries. We commit to working with global leaders to defend this access from the assaults that appear destined to come.
The erosion of human rights anywhere is a threat to us all, a threat to human progress. FP2030 will continue to stand with our partners in the United States and around the world to continue to ensure women, girls, and all who want to control their fertility have the means and information they need to make the best decision for themselves.
