Melbourne, February 8, 2017 – The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is proud to launch the latest phase of the SPRINT initiative, delivered through IPPF’s new, dedicated global humanitarian platform, IPPF Humanitarian. Together, they are thought to be the single largest humanitarian effort worldwide exclusively focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights in crises.

Commencing in 2007 and now in its third phase, the SPRINT initiative continues to be generously supported by the Australian Government. Running from 2017 to 2019, Phase 3 of SPRINT will enable IPPF to reach communities affected by natural disasters – particularly in the Asia Pacific region.

Very welcome announcement made today by @JulieBishopMP at #AAC2017 of $9.5m for sexual and reproductive health during crises via @ippf

— ACFID (@ACFID) February 14, 2017

Sexual and reproductive health and rights in emergencies are too often overlooked and under-funded. When left ignored, women and girls in crisis situations are particularly vulnerable and face numerous health and psychosocial risks. At any given time, one in five women in a crisis may be pregnant, whilst over 500 women and girls die daily in conflict and fragile states from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth.

Thank you @IPPF DG Tewodros Melesse for inspiring words on how reproductive health saves lives & helps #womenandgirls globally #SRHR pic.twitter.com/rFCGsIiDgy

— Jamie Isbister (@AusHumanitarian) February 14, 2017

The SPRINT initiative addresses this situation by ensuring access to high-quality care through the Minimum Initial Service Package for Reproductive Health, an internationally recognised standard. IPPF and its Member Associations work to support national governments of disaster-prone countries to be ready when disaster strikes, and more able to respond and recover.

IPPF’s Director General, Mr. Tewodros Melesse, has welcomed the launch of SPRINT 3 and the official opening of the new IPPF Humanitarian Hub in Bangkok, Thailand and Sub-Hub in Suva, Fiji.

“IPPF praises the ongoing support and leadership of the Australian Government and the generosity of the Australian people in prioritising this critical and under-funded element of humanitarian response.

IPPF is immensely grateful for the opportunity to continue its long-standing partnership with the Australian Government, together ensuring that women and girls in crises can access life-saving sexual and reproductive health care when they need it most.”

Press Contact

Johanna Wicks, Chief – Australia and New Zealand Office, IPPF
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (+61) 3 8459 2185