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News

Latest news from IPPF

Spotlight

A selection of news from across the Federation

IPPF and MAs at CSW
News item

IPPF Statement on the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

IPPF welcomes the agreed conclusions of the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), on the theme of “Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective”. IPPF actively engaged in the process by providing technical inputs to Member States, raising awareness about the interlinkages between SRHR, poverty, gender equality and the empowerment and human rights of all women and girls.

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A photo from Pakistan of a woman receiving healthcare
news item

| 29 April 2021

IPPF warns that millions of vulnerable women and girls will pay the price for catastrophic budget cuts

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been informed that the UK government has made significant cuts to the UK aid budget, including allocated funding for vital sexual and reproductive health services. The brutal cuts are a tragic blow for the world's poorest and most marginalized women and girls. The significant loss of funding for IPPF – totalling around £72 million (approximately $100 million USD) – will mean massive reductions to the UK's flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme and the closure of services in four countries. This initiative delivers life-saving contraception and sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls in some of the world's poorest and most marginalized communities. The cuts to UK Aid Connect will also mean the closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme over the next 90 days. The ACCESS programme provides in-depth research on the specific sexual and reproductive health needs of marginalized communities. It works specifically in complex and challenging environments, including humanitarian settings in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda and was only six months into its implementation. ACCESS was designed to work alongside WISH to ensure that no one is left behind. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional 9 countries, withdrawing support for SRH services from approximately 4,500 service delivery points globally. Sadly, it will also mean the loss of over 480 IPPF staff supporting SRH service delivery in the FCDO supported countries. The shocking 85% funding slash for UNFPA will also increase the price of commodities and supplies of contraception globally, making it more difficult for our Member Associations to source affordable supplies and maintain sustainability. The catastrophic cuts come in the midst of the global pandemic when gender inequality and gender-based violence are increasing significantly, and healthcare services are stretched to the limit. Without access to contraception and sexual health clinics, millions of women and girls in some of the world's most impoverished communities will fall pregnant, forcing them to choose between continuing an unintended pregnancy or having an unsafe abortion – putting their lives and health at risk. The lack of commitment to sexual and reproductive healthcare also contradicts UK government priorities in ending preventable deaths, advancing gender equality, and getting 40 million more girls in low and middle-income countries into school by 2025. In a year where the UK will host the G7 summit, it has chosen to abandon its commitments to women and girls. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply concerned by the news, and while we wait to see precisely how service will be impacted across the Federation, we know the most vulnerable women and girls will be hardest hit. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General said: "Cuts cost lives, and the decision to remove almost $100 million funding for some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable women and girls is just another example of the UK government stepping back when it is needed most.   "Women and girls are already disproportionately affected by the global pandemic. The callous removal of WISH's life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare services will lead to millions more unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, forcing many girls out of school before they are even 16 and causing thousands of preventable maternal deaths. It is a betrayal of women and girls everywhere.   "The forced closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme only six months into its implementation in complex humanitarian settings including Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda, is profoundly upsetting. It will severely impact consortia partners who have invested money and time into its co-creation.   "By breaking its manifesto commitments with tactics reminiscent of the Trump era, this government will undo years of progress and investment. Continuing to spin a narrative to the Biden administration and other governments that the UK still cares while removing funding for essential services will not fly.   "Now more than ever, we need strong leadership, support and investment, so that IPPF can continue providing critical healthcare services when and where they are needed. As leaders of the G7 and COP, we implore the government to rethink its decision urgently and to remain a force for good. Lives depend on it."

A photo from Pakistan of a woman receiving healthcare
news_item

| 29 April 2021

IPPF warns that millions of vulnerable women and girls will pay the price for catastrophic budget cuts

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been informed that the UK government has made significant cuts to the UK aid budget, including allocated funding for vital sexual and reproductive health services. The brutal cuts are a tragic blow for the world's poorest and most marginalized women and girls. The significant loss of funding for IPPF – totalling around £72 million (approximately $100 million USD) – will mean massive reductions to the UK's flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme and the closure of services in four countries. This initiative delivers life-saving contraception and sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls in some of the world's poorest and most marginalized communities. The cuts to UK Aid Connect will also mean the closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme over the next 90 days. The ACCESS programme provides in-depth research on the specific sexual and reproductive health needs of marginalized communities. It works specifically in complex and challenging environments, including humanitarian settings in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda and was only six months into its implementation. ACCESS was designed to work alongside WISH to ensure that no one is left behind. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional 9 countries, withdrawing support for SRH services from approximately 4,500 service delivery points globally. Sadly, it will also mean the loss of over 480 IPPF staff supporting SRH service delivery in the FCDO supported countries. The shocking 85% funding slash for UNFPA will also increase the price of commodities and supplies of contraception globally, making it more difficult for our Member Associations to source affordable supplies and maintain sustainability. The catastrophic cuts come in the midst of the global pandemic when gender inequality and gender-based violence are increasing significantly, and healthcare services are stretched to the limit. Without access to contraception and sexual health clinics, millions of women and girls in some of the world's most impoverished communities will fall pregnant, forcing them to choose between continuing an unintended pregnancy or having an unsafe abortion – putting their lives and health at risk. The lack of commitment to sexual and reproductive healthcare also contradicts UK government priorities in ending preventable deaths, advancing gender equality, and getting 40 million more girls in low and middle-income countries into school by 2025. In a year where the UK will host the G7 summit, it has chosen to abandon its commitments to women and girls. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply concerned by the news, and while we wait to see precisely how service will be impacted across the Federation, we know the most vulnerable women and girls will be hardest hit. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General said: "Cuts cost lives, and the decision to remove almost $100 million funding for some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable women and girls is just another example of the UK government stepping back when it is needed most.   "Women and girls are already disproportionately affected by the global pandemic. The callous removal of WISH's life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare services will lead to millions more unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, forcing many girls out of school before they are even 16 and causing thousands of preventable maternal deaths. It is a betrayal of women and girls everywhere.   "The forced closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme only six months into its implementation in complex humanitarian settings including Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda, is profoundly upsetting. It will severely impact consortia partners who have invested money and time into its co-creation.   "By breaking its manifesto commitments with tactics reminiscent of the Trump era, this government will undo years of progress and investment. Continuing to spin a narrative to the Biden administration and other governments that the UK still cares while removing funding for essential services will not fly.   "Now more than ever, we need strong leadership, support and investment, so that IPPF can continue providing critical healthcare services when and where they are needed. As leaders of the G7 and COP, we implore the government to rethink its decision urgently and to remain a force for good. Lives depend on it."

A woman received healthcare in Cameroon
news item

| 22 April 2021

IPPF statement on the outcome of the 2021 UN Commission on Population and Development (CPD)

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the adoption of the outcome resolution on the CPD’s special theme on population, food security, nutrition and sustainable development at its 54th session. After the Nairobi Summit and more than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s agreement is a reflection of Member States’ commitment to the ICPD agenda and its implementation. We are very pleased that the outcome preserved previous agreements on sexual and reproductive health and rights references. In this regard, the outcome reiterates that sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights are central to the realization of social justice and to the achievement of global, regional and national commitments for sustainable development, as well as calls upon member states to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights and services as part of an effective public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the text also addresses the current impacts of COVID-19 on food insecurity, malnutrition and humanitarian needs as well as its disproportionate impacts on women and girls, including sexual and reproductive health and sexual and gender-based violence, as well as domestic violence and violence in digital contexts. The specific mention of adolescent girls in a paragraph on nutrition reiterates, in line with Agenda 2030, their distinct nutritional needs and the need to enable them to realize their fullest potential. The text also noted the importance of voluntary commitments towards the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action which strengths accountability and ensures that the commitments made at Nairobi are given due recognition. IPPF applauds the work of the co-facilitators alongside the chair of the bureau, who played an instrumental role in reflecting a compromise that was the product of careful negotiations and supported by a vast majority of Member States committed to reach a consensual outcome.

A woman received healthcare in Cameroon
news_item

| 23 April 2021

IPPF statement on the outcome of the 2021 UN Commission on Population and Development (CPD)

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the adoption of the outcome resolution on the CPD’s special theme on population, food security, nutrition and sustainable development at its 54th session. After the Nairobi Summit and more than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s agreement is a reflection of Member States’ commitment to the ICPD agenda and its implementation. We are very pleased that the outcome preserved previous agreements on sexual and reproductive health and rights references. In this regard, the outcome reiterates that sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights are central to the realization of social justice and to the achievement of global, regional and national commitments for sustainable development, as well as calls upon member states to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights and services as part of an effective public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the text also addresses the current impacts of COVID-19 on food insecurity, malnutrition and humanitarian needs as well as its disproportionate impacts on women and girls, including sexual and reproductive health and sexual and gender-based violence, as well as domestic violence and violence in digital contexts. The specific mention of adolescent girls in a paragraph on nutrition reiterates, in line with Agenda 2030, their distinct nutritional needs and the need to enable them to realize their fullest potential. The text also noted the importance of voluntary commitments towards the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action which strengths accountability and ensures that the commitments made at Nairobi are given due recognition. IPPF applauds the work of the co-facilitators alongside the chair of the bureau, who played an instrumental role in reflecting a compromise that was the product of careful negotiations and supported by a vast majority of Member States committed to reach a consensual outcome.

healthcare worker in India
news item

| 21 April 2021

IPPF statement in support of WHO's Vaccine Equity Declaration: Accelerating vaccine equity for all health workers

The health workforce is the backbone of every health system and is essential to achieving the right to health for all. During the COVID-19 pandemic, community and frontline health workers – the vast majority of whom are women – continue to play an essential role in addressing service shortages and access barriers, and bring services, including for sexual and reproductive health, to remote communities and to those who most need them. Despite their essential role in addressing the pandemic, and continuing to deliver quality, gender-sensitive and rights-based health services and information, many health workers currently struggle to access COVID-19 vaccines, especially in lower- and middle-income settings.    International Planned Parenthood Federation’s (IPPF) Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “We’ve watched with both horror and admiration as frontline healthcare workers around the world battle courageously to manage one of the most catastrophic global health crises of our time. Millions of healthcare workers around the world, risking their own health and who are often not protected well enough, continue to provide life-saving care during these exceptional and unprecedented times. We must protect those who are our first and last line of defence in the response to the pandemic. Therefore, we must ensure that every healthcare worker is prioritized during the vaccine rollout.   Nations that have the wealth and access privilege to the vaccine must resist vaccine nationalism – hoarding vaccines will only delay a global recovery. Global leaders must stand together in solidarity to ensure that all frontline healthcare workers – regardless of where they are located – are prioritized and have equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine. If we do not, we face severe disruption to our healthcare systems, many of which are experiencing unprecedented pressure.” IPPF is committed to supporting all health workers and supports the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Equity Declaration, which encourages countries to accelerate the equitable rollout of vaccines in every country, starting with health workers and those at highest risk for COVID-19.   IPPF urges governments and world leaders to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines can be readily accessed by all frontline health workers, including those working in non-government facilities and in mobile or outreach community-based services, and across groups that are currently excluded from, or experiencing unequal access to, vaccination programmes, especially in countries with scarce access to global vaccines pools.   IPPF and its Member Associations are committed to ensuring that those who need healthcare – no matter where they are – can access quality and affordable health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, and receive the care they need to live a healthy life.  

healthcare worker in India
news_item

| 21 April 2021

IPPF statement in support of WHO's Vaccine Equity Declaration: Accelerating vaccine equity for all health workers

The health workforce is the backbone of every health system and is essential to achieving the right to health for all. During the COVID-19 pandemic, community and frontline health workers – the vast majority of whom are women – continue to play an essential role in addressing service shortages and access barriers, and bring services, including for sexual and reproductive health, to remote communities and to those who most need them. Despite their essential role in addressing the pandemic, and continuing to deliver quality, gender-sensitive and rights-based health services and information, many health workers currently struggle to access COVID-19 vaccines, especially in lower- and middle-income settings.    International Planned Parenthood Federation’s (IPPF) Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “We’ve watched with both horror and admiration as frontline healthcare workers around the world battle courageously to manage one of the most catastrophic global health crises of our time. Millions of healthcare workers around the world, risking their own health and who are often not protected well enough, continue to provide life-saving care during these exceptional and unprecedented times. We must protect those who are our first and last line of defence in the response to the pandemic. Therefore, we must ensure that every healthcare worker is prioritized during the vaccine rollout.   Nations that have the wealth and access privilege to the vaccine must resist vaccine nationalism – hoarding vaccines will only delay a global recovery. Global leaders must stand together in solidarity to ensure that all frontline healthcare workers – regardless of where they are located – are prioritized and have equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine. If we do not, we face severe disruption to our healthcare systems, many of which are experiencing unprecedented pressure.” IPPF is committed to supporting all health workers and supports the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Equity Declaration, which encourages countries to accelerate the equitable rollout of vaccines in every country, starting with health workers and those at highest risk for COVID-19.   IPPF urges governments and world leaders to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines can be readily accessed by all frontline health workers, including those working in non-government facilities and in mobile or outreach community-based services, and across groups that are currently excluded from, or experiencing unequal access to, vaccination programmes, especially in countries with scarce access to global vaccines pools.   IPPF and its Member Associations are committed to ensuring that those who need healthcare – no matter where they are – can access quality and affordable health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, and receive the care they need to live a healthy life.  

female doctor with a patient - Bangladesh
news item

| 08 March 2021

IPPF recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report – a review of the equality and gendered-related policies and practices of 201 global organizations active in health and health policy. IPPF is one of 12 organizations recognized as a very high scorer, and places IPPF in the top 5% of sample organizations used in the report. The 2021 Global Health 50/50 report focused on four key areas for assessment: commitment to gender equality, gender equality and diversity policies at work, gender and geography of gender health leadership and gender responsive of health policy and programmes. IPPF’s Seri Wendoh, Global Lead for Gender & Inclusion said: “We are delighted that IPPF has been recognized for its progress and commitment to gender equality and inclusion by Global 50/50 2021. Ensuring IPPF is a progressive, inclusive and safe place for women and gender non-conforming people to work is a testament to the hard work and determination of individuals across IPPF. As a global healthcare organization with a focus on women and girls, it is only right and decent that we continue to look inwardly and improve at every step - as the report states: gender inequality is not inevitable - it’s something that we as people can help dismantle.” Manuelle Hurwitz, IPPF Director of Institutional Delivery said:  “To be classed as a very high scorer in the Global 50/50 2021 report  is an honour and is testament to the commitment of IPPF to gender equality and inclusion. I am proud of the work we are doing to invest and amplify women leaders at IPPF as we establish our Women in Leadership Initiative and of the ground-breaking work done by IPPF Member Associations to ensure gender equality, inclusion and diversity is an integral part of their advocacy, programmes and management.” IPPF’s Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “I’m pleased to see that IPPF is a high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 report. But the report shows there is much more work to be done to dismantle the structural legacy of gender inequality, in order to truly advance gender-equality, diversity and inclusion in global health. We know that the majority of the workforce in our organizations are women, we know they are majority of our service users, and most importantly we know we must promote women at the top with determination because the gap everywhere is so very large. And in order to achieve parity one day, global health organizations need to act with urgency to make sure they have more women than men in positions of leadership. IPPF must and will lead by example, we will not shy away from our responsibility and commitment to shaping a future that has gender equality and female empowerment at the centre.” Kent Buse and Sarah Hawkes, Co-Directors, Global Health 50/50 said:  “On behalf of Global Health 50/50, we would like to congratulate IPPF for their strong performance in the 2021 Gender and Health Index. By taking deliberate and transparent actions IPPF keeps the pressure on themselves and others in the sector to continue pushing for change, and provides much needed hope that we can achieve gender equality in our quest for health, dignity and social justice for all.’  IPPF is committed to promoting feminist leadership at all levels of the organization. Our gender equality policy recognizes that progress to this end requires transformative complementary actions to promote women’s rights and empowerment, including addressing gender gaps, unequal policies and discrimination that have historically disadvantaged women and girls.  

female doctor with a patient - Bangladesh
news_item

| 08 March 2021

IPPF recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report – a review of the equality and gendered-related policies and practices of 201 global organizations active in health and health policy. IPPF is one of 12 organizations recognized as a very high scorer, and places IPPF in the top 5% of sample organizations used in the report. The 2021 Global Health 50/50 report focused on four key areas for assessment: commitment to gender equality, gender equality and diversity policies at work, gender and geography of gender health leadership and gender responsive of health policy and programmes. IPPF’s Seri Wendoh, Global Lead for Gender & Inclusion said: “We are delighted that IPPF has been recognized for its progress and commitment to gender equality and inclusion by Global 50/50 2021. Ensuring IPPF is a progressive, inclusive and safe place for women and gender non-conforming people to work is a testament to the hard work and determination of individuals across IPPF. As a global healthcare organization with a focus on women and girls, it is only right and decent that we continue to look inwardly and improve at every step - as the report states: gender inequality is not inevitable - it’s something that we as people can help dismantle.” Manuelle Hurwitz, IPPF Director of Institutional Delivery said:  “To be classed as a very high scorer in the Global 50/50 2021 report  is an honour and is testament to the commitment of IPPF to gender equality and inclusion. I am proud of the work we are doing to invest and amplify women leaders at IPPF as we establish our Women in Leadership Initiative and of the ground-breaking work done by IPPF Member Associations to ensure gender equality, inclusion and diversity is an integral part of their advocacy, programmes and management.” IPPF’s Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “I’m pleased to see that IPPF is a high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 report. But the report shows there is much more work to be done to dismantle the structural legacy of gender inequality, in order to truly advance gender-equality, diversity and inclusion in global health. We know that the majority of the workforce in our organizations are women, we know they are majority of our service users, and most importantly we know we must promote women at the top with determination because the gap everywhere is so very large. And in order to achieve parity one day, global health organizations need to act with urgency to make sure they have more women than men in positions of leadership. IPPF must and will lead by example, we will not shy away from our responsibility and commitment to shaping a future that has gender equality and female empowerment at the centre.” Kent Buse and Sarah Hawkes, Co-Directors, Global Health 50/50 said:  “On behalf of Global Health 50/50, we would like to congratulate IPPF for their strong performance in the 2021 Gender and Health Index. By taking deliberate and transparent actions IPPF keeps the pressure on themselves and others in the sector to continue pushing for change, and provides much needed hope that we can achieve gender equality in our quest for health, dignity and social justice for all.’  IPPF is committed to promoting feminist leadership at all levels of the organization. Our gender equality policy recognizes that progress to this end requires transformative complementary actions to promote women’s rights and empowerment, including addressing gender gaps, unequal policies and discrimination that have historically disadvantaged women and girls.  

Angola LGBTI flag
news item

| 17 February 2021

Angola decriminalizes same-sex relations

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of Angola decriminalizing same-sex relationships.  IPPF recognizes and congratulates activists, advocates and organizations that helped make this historic change in the law possible.  On Thursday 10 February, Angola’s new penal code came into force, which decriminalized same-sex relations. It also introduces sexual orientation protections into some of Angola’s non-discrimination clauses and mentions sexual orientation in the hate speech clauses of the penal code. Angolans of all sexual orientations can finally live more freely and enjoy the same constitutional right to love and bodily autonomy. These changes are the first rewriting of colonial-era laws since Angola gained independence in 1975, which removed colonial-era clauses that have been in effect since the penal code introduced a ban in 1886. IPPF Africa Regional Office Director Marie-Evelyne Petrus Barry stated: “The news coming from Angola breathes new life and gives renewed hope not only for the LGBTI community in Angola but Africa as a whole. The colonial-era anti-LGBTI laws have been a stain on our collective conscience, and this ruling marks a new era of inclusivity, hope and love. No one should be treated as a criminal for choosing who to love, and we hope this change in the law inspires other countries that have a similar colonial hangover, to review their own laws.”  The first step to change the penal code was announced in 2019, when the Parliament approved the proposed changes. However, only in November 2020 was it signed by President João Lourenço, with a 90 days delay until it came into force last week.  The new penal code overturned the language of “vice against nature”, which was understood as a ban on same-sex relations. The new law includes several articles protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation, in relation to work or at public places and events, and includes imprisonment of up to two years for discrimination based on sexual orientation. After the decriminalization in Angola, the number of countries where homosexuality is decriminalized is now 72. This is a solid foundation for the work that lies ahead to enable a world where all people can make decisions about their sexuality and well-being free of discrimination, a fight that IPPF will be active in.

Angola LGBTI flag
news_item

| 17 February 2021

Angola decriminalizes same-sex relations

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of Angola decriminalizing same-sex relationships.  IPPF recognizes and congratulates activists, advocates and organizations that helped make this historic change in the law possible.  On Thursday 10 February, Angola’s new penal code came into force, which decriminalized same-sex relations. It also introduces sexual orientation protections into some of Angola’s non-discrimination clauses and mentions sexual orientation in the hate speech clauses of the penal code. Angolans of all sexual orientations can finally live more freely and enjoy the same constitutional right to love and bodily autonomy. These changes are the first rewriting of colonial-era laws since Angola gained independence in 1975, which removed colonial-era clauses that have been in effect since the penal code introduced a ban in 1886. IPPF Africa Regional Office Director Marie-Evelyne Petrus Barry stated: “The news coming from Angola breathes new life and gives renewed hope not only for the LGBTI community in Angola but Africa as a whole. The colonial-era anti-LGBTI laws have been a stain on our collective conscience, and this ruling marks a new era of inclusivity, hope and love. No one should be treated as a criminal for choosing who to love, and we hope this change in the law inspires other countries that have a similar colonial hangover, to review their own laws.”  The first step to change the penal code was announced in 2019, when the Parliament approved the proposed changes. However, only in November 2020 was it signed by President João Lourenço, with a 90 days delay until it came into force last week.  The new penal code overturned the language of “vice against nature”, which was understood as a ban on same-sex relations. The new law includes several articles protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation, in relation to work or at public places and events, and includes imprisonment of up to two years for discrimination based on sexual orientation. After the decriminalization in Angola, the number of countries where homosexuality is decriminalized is now 72. This is a solid foundation for the work that lies ahead to enable a world where all people can make decisions about their sexuality and well-being free of discrimination, a fight that IPPF will be active in.

womens rights are human rights
news item

| 28 January 2021

IPPF welcomes President Biden’s decision to repeal the Global Gag Rule

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of President Biden’s decision to keep his promise and repeal the harmful Global Gag Rule (GGR) – also known as the Mexico City Policy.    Since its expanded reintroduction in 2017 by the previous administration, the Global Gag Rule has contributed to an increase in unintended and high-risk pregnancies, unsafe abortions – culminating in unnecessary maternal deaths. For IPPF, 53 healthcare projects in 32 countries were impacted by GGR, with some Member Associations losing up to 60% of their funding.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo said:    “I welcome the decision by President Biden to repeal the Global Gag Rule.   “The expanded reintroduction of the gag was callously designed to deny women the right to decide what happens to their body. Whilst we know this policy is intended as a tool to attack abortion care by the anti-choice movement, not only has it led to reproductive coercion, it has cut deeper into healthcare provision: from HIV prevention programs to maternal health to contraceptive access – no one was spared the fallout of this policy.     “What lies ahead of us is years of work to undo the harm caused by Global Gag Rule, and to build back a better and stronger relationship with the US – one where our work is not under threat from future anti-sexual and reproductive health administrations. To protect the rights of future generations of women and girls, we ask that the Biden-Harris administration take the necessary steps to permanently repeal the Global Gag Rule. Without a permanent repeal, the global gag remains a constant threat to women, girls, youth and marginalized communities. Reproductive rights, bodily autonomy and the human right to decide what happens to your body cannot be at the mercy of a pen stroke.     “IPPF looks on with hope and welcomes the opportunity to work closely with the Biden-Harris administration to protect and advance sexual and reproductive healthcare for all.”   And President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Alexis McGill Johnson said:  “Over the past four years, the United States didn’t just fail to support global reproductive health care access – it actively blocked it. Today, we applaud the beginning of a new chapter, as the Biden-Harris administration puts an end to the devastating global gag rule, which has prevented millions of people around the world from receiving essential health care. We look forward to working alongside the administration and Congress to pass the Global HER Act, to permanently protect access to sexual and reproductive health care across the globe from changes in White House political control. It is long past time that the United States proudly declares to the world that reproductive rights are human rights.”     IPPF would like to thank the international community who stepped in and stepped up to help fill the funding gap that was left by the Global Gag Rule. Together, we will continue to fight and deliver sexual and reproductive health and rights. For media inquiries please contact [email protected] (+44) 2079398227 

womens rights are human rights
news_item

| 28 January 2021

IPPF welcomes President Biden’s decision to repeal the Global Gag Rule

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of President Biden’s decision to keep his promise and repeal the harmful Global Gag Rule (GGR) – also known as the Mexico City Policy.    Since its expanded reintroduction in 2017 by the previous administration, the Global Gag Rule has contributed to an increase in unintended and high-risk pregnancies, unsafe abortions – culminating in unnecessary maternal deaths. For IPPF, 53 healthcare projects in 32 countries were impacted by GGR, with some Member Associations losing up to 60% of their funding.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo said:    “I welcome the decision by President Biden to repeal the Global Gag Rule.   “The expanded reintroduction of the gag was callously designed to deny women the right to decide what happens to their body. Whilst we know this policy is intended as a tool to attack abortion care by the anti-choice movement, not only has it led to reproductive coercion, it has cut deeper into healthcare provision: from HIV prevention programs to maternal health to contraceptive access – no one was spared the fallout of this policy.     “What lies ahead of us is years of work to undo the harm caused by Global Gag Rule, and to build back a better and stronger relationship with the US – one where our work is not under threat from future anti-sexual and reproductive health administrations. To protect the rights of future generations of women and girls, we ask that the Biden-Harris administration take the necessary steps to permanently repeal the Global Gag Rule. Without a permanent repeal, the global gag remains a constant threat to women, girls, youth and marginalized communities. Reproductive rights, bodily autonomy and the human right to decide what happens to your body cannot be at the mercy of a pen stroke.     “IPPF looks on with hope and welcomes the opportunity to work closely with the Biden-Harris administration to protect and advance sexual and reproductive healthcare for all.”   And President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Alexis McGill Johnson said:  “Over the past four years, the United States didn’t just fail to support global reproductive health care access – it actively blocked it. Today, we applaud the beginning of a new chapter, as the Biden-Harris administration puts an end to the devastating global gag rule, which has prevented millions of people around the world from receiving essential health care. We look forward to working alongside the administration and Congress to pass the Global HER Act, to permanently protect access to sexual and reproductive health care across the globe from changes in White House political control. It is long past time that the United States proudly declares to the world that reproductive rights are human rights.”     IPPF would like to thank the international community who stepped in and stepped up to help fill the funding gap that was left by the Global Gag Rule. Together, we will continue to fight and deliver sexual and reproductive health and rights. For media inquiries please contact [email protected] (+44) 2079398227 

A photo from Pakistan of a woman receiving healthcare
news item

| 29 April 2021

IPPF warns that millions of vulnerable women and girls will pay the price for catastrophic budget cuts

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been informed that the UK government has made significant cuts to the UK aid budget, including allocated funding for vital sexual and reproductive health services. The brutal cuts are a tragic blow for the world's poorest and most marginalized women and girls. The significant loss of funding for IPPF – totalling around £72 million (approximately $100 million USD) – will mean massive reductions to the UK's flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme and the closure of services in four countries. This initiative delivers life-saving contraception and sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls in some of the world's poorest and most marginalized communities. The cuts to UK Aid Connect will also mean the closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme over the next 90 days. The ACCESS programme provides in-depth research on the specific sexual and reproductive health needs of marginalized communities. It works specifically in complex and challenging environments, including humanitarian settings in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda and was only six months into its implementation. ACCESS was designed to work alongside WISH to ensure that no one is left behind. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional 9 countries, withdrawing support for SRH services from approximately 4,500 service delivery points globally. Sadly, it will also mean the loss of over 480 IPPF staff supporting SRH service delivery in the FCDO supported countries. The shocking 85% funding slash for UNFPA will also increase the price of commodities and supplies of contraception globally, making it more difficult for our Member Associations to source affordable supplies and maintain sustainability. The catastrophic cuts come in the midst of the global pandemic when gender inequality and gender-based violence are increasing significantly, and healthcare services are stretched to the limit. Without access to contraception and sexual health clinics, millions of women and girls in some of the world's most impoverished communities will fall pregnant, forcing them to choose between continuing an unintended pregnancy or having an unsafe abortion – putting their lives and health at risk. The lack of commitment to sexual and reproductive healthcare also contradicts UK government priorities in ending preventable deaths, advancing gender equality, and getting 40 million more girls in low and middle-income countries into school by 2025. In a year where the UK will host the G7 summit, it has chosen to abandon its commitments to women and girls. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply concerned by the news, and while we wait to see precisely how service will be impacted across the Federation, we know the most vulnerable women and girls will be hardest hit. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General said: "Cuts cost lives, and the decision to remove almost $100 million funding for some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable women and girls is just another example of the UK government stepping back when it is needed most.   "Women and girls are already disproportionately affected by the global pandemic. The callous removal of WISH's life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare services will lead to millions more unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, forcing many girls out of school before they are even 16 and causing thousands of preventable maternal deaths. It is a betrayal of women and girls everywhere.   "The forced closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme only six months into its implementation in complex humanitarian settings including Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda, is profoundly upsetting. It will severely impact consortia partners who have invested money and time into its co-creation.   "By breaking its manifesto commitments with tactics reminiscent of the Trump era, this government will undo years of progress and investment. Continuing to spin a narrative to the Biden administration and other governments that the UK still cares while removing funding for essential services will not fly.   "Now more than ever, we need strong leadership, support and investment, so that IPPF can continue providing critical healthcare services when and where they are needed. As leaders of the G7 and COP, we implore the government to rethink its decision urgently and to remain a force for good. Lives depend on it."

A photo from Pakistan of a woman receiving healthcare
news_item

| 29 April 2021

IPPF warns that millions of vulnerable women and girls will pay the price for catastrophic budget cuts

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been informed that the UK government has made significant cuts to the UK aid budget, including allocated funding for vital sexual and reproductive health services. The brutal cuts are a tragic blow for the world's poorest and most marginalized women and girls. The significant loss of funding for IPPF – totalling around £72 million (approximately $100 million USD) – will mean massive reductions to the UK's flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme and the closure of services in four countries. This initiative delivers life-saving contraception and sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls in some of the world's poorest and most marginalized communities. The cuts to UK Aid Connect will also mean the closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme over the next 90 days. The ACCESS programme provides in-depth research on the specific sexual and reproductive health needs of marginalized communities. It works specifically in complex and challenging environments, including humanitarian settings in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda and was only six months into its implementation. ACCESS was designed to work alongside WISH to ensure that no one is left behind. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional 9 countries, withdrawing support for SRH services from approximately 4,500 service delivery points globally. Sadly, it will also mean the loss of over 480 IPPF staff supporting SRH service delivery in the FCDO supported countries. The shocking 85% funding slash for UNFPA will also increase the price of commodities and supplies of contraception globally, making it more difficult for our Member Associations to source affordable supplies and maintain sustainability. The catastrophic cuts come in the midst of the global pandemic when gender inequality and gender-based violence are increasing significantly, and healthcare services are stretched to the limit. Without access to contraception and sexual health clinics, millions of women and girls in some of the world's most impoverished communities will fall pregnant, forcing them to choose between continuing an unintended pregnancy or having an unsafe abortion – putting their lives and health at risk. The lack of commitment to sexual and reproductive healthcare also contradicts UK government priorities in ending preventable deaths, advancing gender equality, and getting 40 million more girls in low and middle-income countries into school by 2025. In a year where the UK will host the G7 summit, it has chosen to abandon its commitments to women and girls. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply concerned by the news, and while we wait to see precisely how service will be impacted across the Federation, we know the most vulnerable women and girls will be hardest hit. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General said: "Cuts cost lives, and the decision to remove almost $100 million funding for some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable women and girls is just another example of the UK government stepping back when it is needed most.   "Women and girls are already disproportionately affected by the global pandemic. The callous removal of WISH's life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare services will lead to millions more unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, forcing many girls out of school before they are even 16 and causing thousands of preventable maternal deaths. It is a betrayal of women and girls everywhere.   "The forced closure of IPPF's ACCESS programme only six months into its implementation in complex humanitarian settings including Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda, is profoundly upsetting. It will severely impact consortia partners who have invested money and time into its co-creation.   "By breaking its manifesto commitments with tactics reminiscent of the Trump era, this government will undo years of progress and investment. Continuing to spin a narrative to the Biden administration and other governments that the UK still cares while removing funding for essential services will not fly.   "Now more than ever, we need strong leadership, support and investment, so that IPPF can continue providing critical healthcare services when and where they are needed. As leaders of the G7 and COP, we implore the government to rethink its decision urgently and to remain a force for good. Lives depend on it."

A woman received healthcare in Cameroon
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| 22 April 2021

IPPF statement on the outcome of the 2021 UN Commission on Population and Development (CPD)

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the adoption of the outcome resolution on the CPD’s special theme on population, food security, nutrition and sustainable development at its 54th session. After the Nairobi Summit and more than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s agreement is a reflection of Member States’ commitment to the ICPD agenda and its implementation. We are very pleased that the outcome preserved previous agreements on sexual and reproductive health and rights references. In this regard, the outcome reiterates that sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights are central to the realization of social justice and to the achievement of global, regional and national commitments for sustainable development, as well as calls upon member states to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights and services as part of an effective public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the text also addresses the current impacts of COVID-19 on food insecurity, malnutrition and humanitarian needs as well as its disproportionate impacts on women and girls, including sexual and reproductive health and sexual and gender-based violence, as well as domestic violence and violence in digital contexts. The specific mention of adolescent girls in a paragraph on nutrition reiterates, in line with Agenda 2030, their distinct nutritional needs and the need to enable them to realize their fullest potential. The text also noted the importance of voluntary commitments towards the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action which strengths accountability and ensures that the commitments made at Nairobi are given due recognition. IPPF applauds the work of the co-facilitators alongside the chair of the bureau, who played an instrumental role in reflecting a compromise that was the product of careful negotiations and supported by a vast majority of Member States committed to reach a consensual outcome.

A woman received healthcare in Cameroon
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| 23 April 2021

IPPF statement on the outcome of the 2021 UN Commission on Population and Development (CPD)

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the adoption of the outcome resolution on the CPD’s special theme on population, food security, nutrition and sustainable development at its 54th session. After the Nairobi Summit and more than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s agreement is a reflection of Member States’ commitment to the ICPD agenda and its implementation. We are very pleased that the outcome preserved previous agreements on sexual and reproductive health and rights references. In this regard, the outcome reiterates that sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights are central to the realization of social justice and to the achievement of global, regional and national commitments for sustainable development, as well as calls upon member states to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights and services as part of an effective public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the text also addresses the current impacts of COVID-19 on food insecurity, malnutrition and humanitarian needs as well as its disproportionate impacts on women and girls, including sexual and reproductive health and sexual and gender-based violence, as well as domestic violence and violence in digital contexts. The specific mention of adolescent girls in a paragraph on nutrition reiterates, in line with Agenda 2030, their distinct nutritional needs and the need to enable them to realize their fullest potential. The text also noted the importance of voluntary commitments towards the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action which strengths accountability and ensures that the commitments made at Nairobi are given due recognition. IPPF applauds the work of the co-facilitators alongside the chair of the bureau, who played an instrumental role in reflecting a compromise that was the product of careful negotiations and supported by a vast majority of Member States committed to reach a consensual outcome.

healthcare worker in India
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| 21 April 2021

IPPF statement in support of WHO's Vaccine Equity Declaration: Accelerating vaccine equity for all health workers

The health workforce is the backbone of every health system and is essential to achieving the right to health for all. During the COVID-19 pandemic, community and frontline health workers – the vast majority of whom are women – continue to play an essential role in addressing service shortages and access barriers, and bring services, including for sexual and reproductive health, to remote communities and to those who most need them. Despite their essential role in addressing the pandemic, and continuing to deliver quality, gender-sensitive and rights-based health services and information, many health workers currently struggle to access COVID-19 vaccines, especially in lower- and middle-income settings.    International Planned Parenthood Federation’s (IPPF) Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “We’ve watched with both horror and admiration as frontline healthcare workers around the world battle courageously to manage one of the most catastrophic global health crises of our time. Millions of healthcare workers around the world, risking their own health and who are often not protected well enough, continue to provide life-saving care during these exceptional and unprecedented times. We must protect those who are our first and last line of defence in the response to the pandemic. Therefore, we must ensure that every healthcare worker is prioritized during the vaccine rollout.   Nations that have the wealth and access privilege to the vaccine must resist vaccine nationalism – hoarding vaccines will only delay a global recovery. Global leaders must stand together in solidarity to ensure that all frontline healthcare workers – regardless of where they are located – are prioritized and have equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine. If we do not, we face severe disruption to our healthcare systems, many of which are experiencing unprecedented pressure.” IPPF is committed to supporting all health workers and supports the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Equity Declaration, which encourages countries to accelerate the equitable rollout of vaccines in every country, starting with health workers and those at highest risk for COVID-19.   IPPF urges governments and world leaders to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines can be readily accessed by all frontline health workers, including those working in non-government facilities and in mobile or outreach community-based services, and across groups that are currently excluded from, or experiencing unequal access to, vaccination programmes, especially in countries with scarce access to global vaccines pools.   IPPF and its Member Associations are committed to ensuring that those who need healthcare – no matter where they are – can access quality and affordable health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, and receive the care they need to live a healthy life.  

healthcare worker in India
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| 21 April 2021

IPPF statement in support of WHO's Vaccine Equity Declaration: Accelerating vaccine equity for all health workers

The health workforce is the backbone of every health system and is essential to achieving the right to health for all. During the COVID-19 pandemic, community and frontline health workers – the vast majority of whom are women – continue to play an essential role in addressing service shortages and access barriers, and bring services, including for sexual and reproductive health, to remote communities and to those who most need them. Despite their essential role in addressing the pandemic, and continuing to deliver quality, gender-sensitive and rights-based health services and information, many health workers currently struggle to access COVID-19 vaccines, especially in lower- and middle-income settings.    International Planned Parenthood Federation’s (IPPF) Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “We’ve watched with both horror and admiration as frontline healthcare workers around the world battle courageously to manage one of the most catastrophic global health crises of our time. Millions of healthcare workers around the world, risking their own health and who are often not protected well enough, continue to provide life-saving care during these exceptional and unprecedented times. We must protect those who are our first and last line of defence in the response to the pandemic. Therefore, we must ensure that every healthcare worker is prioritized during the vaccine rollout.   Nations that have the wealth and access privilege to the vaccine must resist vaccine nationalism – hoarding vaccines will only delay a global recovery. Global leaders must stand together in solidarity to ensure that all frontline healthcare workers – regardless of where they are located – are prioritized and have equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine. If we do not, we face severe disruption to our healthcare systems, many of which are experiencing unprecedented pressure.” IPPF is committed to supporting all health workers and supports the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Equity Declaration, which encourages countries to accelerate the equitable rollout of vaccines in every country, starting with health workers and those at highest risk for COVID-19.   IPPF urges governments and world leaders to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines can be readily accessed by all frontline health workers, including those working in non-government facilities and in mobile or outreach community-based services, and across groups that are currently excluded from, or experiencing unequal access to, vaccination programmes, especially in countries with scarce access to global vaccines pools.   IPPF and its Member Associations are committed to ensuring that those who need healthcare – no matter where they are – can access quality and affordable health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, and receive the care they need to live a healthy life.  

female doctor with a patient - Bangladesh
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| 08 March 2021

IPPF recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report – a review of the equality and gendered-related policies and practices of 201 global organizations active in health and health policy. IPPF is one of 12 organizations recognized as a very high scorer, and places IPPF in the top 5% of sample organizations used in the report. The 2021 Global Health 50/50 report focused on four key areas for assessment: commitment to gender equality, gender equality and diversity policies at work, gender and geography of gender health leadership and gender responsive of health policy and programmes. IPPF’s Seri Wendoh, Global Lead for Gender & Inclusion said: “We are delighted that IPPF has been recognized for its progress and commitment to gender equality and inclusion by Global 50/50 2021. Ensuring IPPF is a progressive, inclusive and safe place for women and gender non-conforming people to work is a testament to the hard work and determination of individuals across IPPF. As a global healthcare organization with a focus on women and girls, it is only right and decent that we continue to look inwardly and improve at every step - as the report states: gender inequality is not inevitable - it’s something that we as people can help dismantle.” Manuelle Hurwitz, IPPF Director of Institutional Delivery said:  “To be classed as a very high scorer in the Global 50/50 2021 report  is an honour and is testament to the commitment of IPPF to gender equality and inclusion. I am proud of the work we are doing to invest and amplify women leaders at IPPF as we establish our Women in Leadership Initiative and of the ground-breaking work done by IPPF Member Associations to ensure gender equality, inclusion and diversity is an integral part of their advocacy, programmes and management.” IPPF’s Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “I’m pleased to see that IPPF is a high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 report. But the report shows there is much more work to be done to dismantle the structural legacy of gender inequality, in order to truly advance gender-equality, diversity and inclusion in global health. We know that the majority of the workforce in our organizations are women, we know they are majority of our service users, and most importantly we know we must promote women at the top with determination because the gap everywhere is so very large. And in order to achieve parity one day, global health organizations need to act with urgency to make sure they have more women than men in positions of leadership. IPPF must and will lead by example, we will not shy away from our responsibility and commitment to shaping a future that has gender equality and female empowerment at the centre.” Kent Buse and Sarah Hawkes, Co-Directors, Global Health 50/50 said:  “On behalf of Global Health 50/50, we would like to congratulate IPPF for their strong performance in the 2021 Gender and Health Index. By taking deliberate and transparent actions IPPF keeps the pressure on themselves and others in the sector to continue pushing for change, and provides much needed hope that we can achieve gender equality in our quest for health, dignity and social justice for all.’  IPPF is committed to promoting feminist leadership at all levels of the organization. Our gender equality policy recognizes that progress to this end requires transformative complementary actions to promote women’s rights and empowerment, including addressing gender gaps, unequal policies and discrimination that have historically disadvantaged women and girls.  

female doctor with a patient - Bangladesh
news_item

| 08 March 2021

IPPF recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been recognized as a very high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 Report – a review of the equality and gendered-related policies and practices of 201 global organizations active in health and health policy. IPPF is one of 12 organizations recognized as a very high scorer, and places IPPF in the top 5% of sample organizations used in the report. The 2021 Global Health 50/50 report focused on four key areas for assessment: commitment to gender equality, gender equality and diversity policies at work, gender and geography of gender health leadership and gender responsive of health policy and programmes. IPPF’s Seri Wendoh, Global Lead for Gender & Inclusion said: “We are delighted that IPPF has been recognized for its progress and commitment to gender equality and inclusion by Global 50/50 2021. Ensuring IPPF is a progressive, inclusive and safe place for women and gender non-conforming people to work is a testament to the hard work and determination of individuals across IPPF. As a global healthcare organization with a focus on women and girls, it is only right and decent that we continue to look inwardly and improve at every step - as the report states: gender inequality is not inevitable - it’s something that we as people can help dismantle.” Manuelle Hurwitz, IPPF Director of Institutional Delivery said:  “To be classed as a very high scorer in the Global 50/50 2021 report  is an honour and is testament to the commitment of IPPF to gender equality and inclusion. I am proud of the work we are doing to invest and amplify women leaders at IPPF as we establish our Women in Leadership Initiative and of the ground-breaking work done by IPPF Member Associations to ensure gender equality, inclusion and diversity is an integral part of their advocacy, programmes and management.” IPPF’s Director-General Dr Alvaro Bermejo said: “I’m pleased to see that IPPF is a high scorer in the 2021 Global Health 50/50 report. But the report shows there is much more work to be done to dismantle the structural legacy of gender inequality, in order to truly advance gender-equality, diversity and inclusion in global health. We know that the majority of the workforce in our organizations are women, we know they are majority of our service users, and most importantly we know we must promote women at the top with determination because the gap everywhere is so very large. And in order to achieve parity one day, global health organizations need to act with urgency to make sure they have more women than men in positions of leadership. IPPF must and will lead by example, we will not shy away from our responsibility and commitment to shaping a future that has gender equality and female empowerment at the centre.” Kent Buse and Sarah Hawkes, Co-Directors, Global Health 50/50 said:  “On behalf of Global Health 50/50, we would like to congratulate IPPF for their strong performance in the 2021 Gender and Health Index. By taking deliberate and transparent actions IPPF keeps the pressure on themselves and others in the sector to continue pushing for change, and provides much needed hope that we can achieve gender equality in our quest for health, dignity and social justice for all.’  IPPF is committed to promoting feminist leadership at all levels of the organization. Our gender equality policy recognizes that progress to this end requires transformative complementary actions to promote women’s rights and empowerment, including addressing gender gaps, unequal policies and discrimination that have historically disadvantaged women and girls.  

Angola LGBTI flag
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| 17 February 2021

Angola decriminalizes same-sex relations

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of Angola decriminalizing same-sex relationships.  IPPF recognizes and congratulates activists, advocates and organizations that helped make this historic change in the law possible.  On Thursday 10 February, Angola’s new penal code came into force, which decriminalized same-sex relations. It also introduces sexual orientation protections into some of Angola’s non-discrimination clauses and mentions sexual orientation in the hate speech clauses of the penal code. Angolans of all sexual orientations can finally live more freely and enjoy the same constitutional right to love and bodily autonomy. These changes are the first rewriting of colonial-era laws since Angola gained independence in 1975, which removed colonial-era clauses that have been in effect since the penal code introduced a ban in 1886. IPPF Africa Regional Office Director Marie-Evelyne Petrus Barry stated: “The news coming from Angola breathes new life and gives renewed hope not only for the LGBTI community in Angola but Africa as a whole. The colonial-era anti-LGBTI laws have been a stain on our collective conscience, and this ruling marks a new era of inclusivity, hope and love. No one should be treated as a criminal for choosing who to love, and we hope this change in the law inspires other countries that have a similar colonial hangover, to review their own laws.”  The first step to change the penal code was announced in 2019, when the Parliament approved the proposed changes. However, only in November 2020 was it signed by President João Lourenço, with a 90 days delay until it came into force last week.  The new penal code overturned the language of “vice against nature”, which was understood as a ban on same-sex relations. The new law includes several articles protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation, in relation to work or at public places and events, and includes imprisonment of up to two years for discrimination based on sexual orientation. After the decriminalization in Angola, the number of countries where homosexuality is decriminalized is now 72. This is a solid foundation for the work that lies ahead to enable a world where all people can make decisions about their sexuality and well-being free of discrimination, a fight that IPPF will be active in.

Angola LGBTI flag
news_item

| 17 February 2021

Angola decriminalizes same-sex relations

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of Angola decriminalizing same-sex relationships.  IPPF recognizes and congratulates activists, advocates and organizations that helped make this historic change in the law possible.  On Thursday 10 February, Angola’s new penal code came into force, which decriminalized same-sex relations. It also introduces sexual orientation protections into some of Angola’s non-discrimination clauses and mentions sexual orientation in the hate speech clauses of the penal code. Angolans of all sexual orientations can finally live more freely and enjoy the same constitutional right to love and bodily autonomy. These changes are the first rewriting of colonial-era laws since Angola gained independence in 1975, which removed colonial-era clauses that have been in effect since the penal code introduced a ban in 1886. IPPF Africa Regional Office Director Marie-Evelyne Petrus Barry stated: “The news coming from Angola breathes new life and gives renewed hope not only for the LGBTI community in Angola but Africa as a whole. The colonial-era anti-LGBTI laws have been a stain on our collective conscience, and this ruling marks a new era of inclusivity, hope and love. No one should be treated as a criminal for choosing who to love, and we hope this change in the law inspires other countries that have a similar colonial hangover, to review their own laws.”  The first step to change the penal code was announced in 2019, when the Parliament approved the proposed changes. However, only in November 2020 was it signed by President João Lourenço, with a 90 days delay until it came into force last week.  The new penal code overturned the language of “vice against nature”, which was understood as a ban on same-sex relations. The new law includes several articles protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation, in relation to work or at public places and events, and includes imprisonment of up to two years for discrimination based on sexual orientation. After the decriminalization in Angola, the number of countries where homosexuality is decriminalized is now 72. This is a solid foundation for the work that lies ahead to enable a world where all people can make decisions about their sexuality and well-being free of discrimination, a fight that IPPF will be active in.

womens rights are human rights
news item

| 28 January 2021

IPPF welcomes President Biden’s decision to repeal the Global Gag Rule

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of President Biden’s decision to keep his promise and repeal the harmful Global Gag Rule (GGR) – also known as the Mexico City Policy.    Since its expanded reintroduction in 2017 by the previous administration, the Global Gag Rule has contributed to an increase in unintended and high-risk pregnancies, unsafe abortions – culminating in unnecessary maternal deaths. For IPPF, 53 healthcare projects in 32 countries were impacted by GGR, with some Member Associations losing up to 60% of their funding.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo said:    “I welcome the decision by President Biden to repeal the Global Gag Rule.   “The expanded reintroduction of the gag was callously designed to deny women the right to decide what happens to their body. Whilst we know this policy is intended as a tool to attack abortion care by the anti-choice movement, not only has it led to reproductive coercion, it has cut deeper into healthcare provision: from HIV prevention programs to maternal health to contraceptive access – no one was spared the fallout of this policy.     “What lies ahead of us is years of work to undo the harm caused by Global Gag Rule, and to build back a better and stronger relationship with the US – one where our work is not under threat from future anti-sexual and reproductive health administrations. To protect the rights of future generations of women and girls, we ask that the Biden-Harris administration take the necessary steps to permanently repeal the Global Gag Rule. Without a permanent repeal, the global gag remains a constant threat to women, girls, youth and marginalized communities. Reproductive rights, bodily autonomy and the human right to decide what happens to your body cannot be at the mercy of a pen stroke.     “IPPF looks on with hope and welcomes the opportunity to work closely with the Biden-Harris administration to protect and advance sexual and reproductive healthcare for all.”   And President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Alexis McGill Johnson said:  “Over the past four years, the United States didn’t just fail to support global reproductive health care access – it actively blocked it. Today, we applaud the beginning of a new chapter, as the Biden-Harris administration puts an end to the devastating global gag rule, which has prevented millions of people around the world from receiving essential health care. We look forward to working alongside the administration and Congress to pass the Global HER Act, to permanently protect access to sexual and reproductive health care across the globe from changes in White House political control. It is long past time that the United States proudly declares to the world that reproductive rights are human rights.”     IPPF would like to thank the international community who stepped in and stepped up to help fill the funding gap that was left by the Global Gag Rule. Together, we will continue to fight and deliver sexual and reproductive health and rights. For media inquiries please contact [email protected] (+44) 2079398227 

womens rights are human rights
news_item

| 28 January 2021

IPPF welcomes President Biden’s decision to repeal the Global Gag Rule

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) welcomes the news of President Biden’s decision to keep his promise and repeal the harmful Global Gag Rule (GGR) – also known as the Mexico City Policy.    Since its expanded reintroduction in 2017 by the previous administration, the Global Gag Rule has contributed to an increase in unintended and high-risk pregnancies, unsafe abortions – culminating in unnecessary maternal deaths. For IPPF, 53 healthcare projects in 32 countries were impacted by GGR, with some Member Associations losing up to 60% of their funding.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo said:    “I welcome the decision by President Biden to repeal the Global Gag Rule.   “The expanded reintroduction of the gag was callously designed to deny women the right to decide what happens to their body. Whilst we know this policy is intended as a tool to attack abortion care by the anti-choice movement, not only has it led to reproductive coercion, it has cut deeper into healthcare provision: from HIV prevention programs to maternal health to contraceptive access – no one was spared the fallout of this policy.     “What lies ahead of us is years of work to undo the harm caused by Global Gag Rule, and to build back a better and stronger relationship with the US – one where our work is not under threat from future anti-sexual and reproductive health administrations. To protect the rights of future generations of women and girls, we ask that the Biden-Harris administration take the necessary steps to permanently repeal the Global Gag Rule. Without a permanent repeal, the global gag remains a constant threat to women, girls, youth and marginalized communities. Reproductive rights, bodily autonomy and the human right to decide what happens to your body cannot be at the mercy of a pen stroke.     “IPPF looks on with hope and welcomes the opportunity to work closely with the Biden-Harris administration to protect and advance sexual and reproductive healthcare for all.”   And President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Alexis McGill Johnson said:  “Over the past four years, the United States didn’t just fail to support global reproductive health care access – it actively blocked it. Today, we applaud the beginning of a new chapter, as the Biden-Harris administration puts an end to the devastating global gag rule, which has prevented millions of people around the world from receiving essential health care. We look forward to working alongside the administration and Congress to pass the Global HER Act, to permanently protect access to sexual and reproductive health care across the globe from changes in White House political control. It is long past time that the United States proudly declares to the world that reproductive rights are human rights.”     IPPF would like to thank the international community who stepped in and stepped up to help fill the funding gap that was left by the Global Gag Rule. Together, we will continue to fight and deliver sexual and reproductive health and rights. For media inquiries please contact [email protected] (+44) 2079398227