- - -
bank-phrom-Tzm3Oyu_6sk-unsplash

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.

Filter our news by:

nairobi cover
news item

| 04 November 2022

IPPF celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit (HLC). The commission is a full independent advisory board comprised of 26 members from different sectors, tasked with monitoring progress on The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action.  Whilst we acknowledge that some progress has been made, IPPF regrets to read that no region is on track to fully implement and deliver on their ICPD commitments.   Monitoring the implementation of life-saving sexual and reproductive health and gender-responsive services is crucial to ensure accountability and human rights for all. This is why IPPF launched its ICPD+25 Nairobi Summit report - A roadmap to fulfilling the promise, and our ICPD commitments tracker database, which analyses the commitments made by governments of 137 countries who participated in the Nairobi summit in 2019 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the ICPD Programme of Action.   IPPF fully supports the sexual and reproductive justice frame and is committed to following the recommendations of the call to action of the report:  1) making justice the end goal,   (2) putting rights and development at the core of action,   (3) thinking differently and pursuing innovations in health-care service delivery,   (4) reaching further and prioritizing marginalized groups facing the worst disparities in terms of sexual and reproductive justice,   (5) tracking and increasing funding for SRHR, and   (6) creating new narratives around sexual and reproductive justice that are accurate and powerful enough to counter ongoing oppositional voices.  Anamaria Bejar, Global Director of Advocacy said:  “We are facing a critical crossroad – the report makes it clear that governments need to act now and fast. Sexual and reproductive health and rights can no longer hang in the balance; they are non-negotiable. The pandemic has shown us just how fragile access to sexual and reproductive health services is, and how the opposition has used the cover of covid to attack hard-won rights including access to safe abortion care. IPPF Member Associations will continue to deliver on our commitments to ensuring that everyone, no matter where they are or who they are, access high-quality healthcare and realize their full rights." Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General added:  “The report is a sobering reminder that we are far from reaching the commitments made at ICPD. Cairo was a historic moment for sexual and reproductive health and rights, but over 25 years later, we are still falling short of its vision, and have made little progress since Nairobi. Women, girls, and people from marginalized communities cannot wait any longer, nor should they. Governments need to do more; this means more financial investment, more political will, and a sense of urgency to get us back on track.” 

nairobi cover
news_item

| 15 November 2021

IPPF celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit (HLC). The commission is a full independent advisory board comprised of 26 members from different sectors, tasked with monitoring progress on The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action.  Whilst we acknowledge that some progress has been made, IPPF regrets to read that no region is on track to fully implement and deliver on their ICPD commitments.   Monitoring the implementation of life-saving sexual and reproductive health and gender-responsive services is crucial to ensure accountability and human rights for all. This is why IPPF launched its ICPD+25 Nairobi Summit report - A roadmap to fulfilling the promise, and our ICPD commitments tracker database, which analyses the commitments made by governments of 137 countries who participated in the Nairobi summit in 2019 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the ICPD Programme of Action.   IPPF fully supports the sexual and reproductive justice frame and is committed to following the recommendations of the call to action of the report:  1) making justice the end goal,   (2) putting rights and development at the core of action,   (3) thinking differently and pursuing innovations in health-care service delivery,   (4) reaching further and prioritizing marginalized groups facing the worst disparities in terms of sexual and reproductive justice,   (5) tracking and increasing funding for SRHR, and   (6) creating new narratives around sexual and reproductive justice that are accurate and powerful enough to counter ongoing oppositional voices.  Anamaria Bejar, Global Director of Advocacy said:  “We are facing a critical crossroad – the report makes it clear that governments need to act now and fast. Sexual and reproductive health and rights can no longer hang in the balance; they are non-negotiable. The pandemic has shown us just how fragile access to sexual and reproductive health services is, and how the opposition has used the cover of covid to attack hard-won rights including access to safe abortion care. IPPF Member Associations will continue to deliver on our commitments to ensuring that everyone, no matter where they are or who they are, access high-quality healthcare and realize their full rights." Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General added:  “The report is a sobering reminder that we are far from reaching the commitments made at ICPD. Cairo was a historic moment for sexual and reproductive health and rights, but over 25 years later, we are still falling short of its vision, and have made little progress since Nairobi. Women, girls, and people from marginalized communities cannot wait any longer, nor should they. Governments need to do more; this means more financial investment, more political will, and a sense of urgency to get us back on track.” 

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann
news item

| 13 September 2021

IPPF is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, former IPPF Director-General

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, who led IPPF as its Director-General from 1995-2002. Under her leadership, she accelerated IPPF’s transition into a dynamic and progressive organization that full embraced and acted upon the 1994 International Conference of Population and Development Programme of Action in her vision and direction for the Federation. Her leadership ran until 2002 during which time she was the architect of IPPF’s landmark Charter on Sexual and Reproductive Rights, and was passionate in her promotion of young people being at the heart of IPPF’s policies and programmes. In her staunch defense of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Ms Brüggemann was the embodiment of the ‘Brave and Angry’ movement of women leaders that overhauled the thinking and practice around population policy and sexual and reproductive health and paved the way for the next generation.  Ingar was a true visionary, leader, and unapologetic disruptor in the SRHR movement, where her legacy will continue to live on through the work of IPPF. Ingar Brüggemann 3 October 1933 - 7 September 2021

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann
news_item

| 13 September 2021

IPPF is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, former IPPF Director-General

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, who led IPPF as its Director-General from 1995-2002. Under her leadership, she accelerated IPPF’s transition into a dynamic and progressive organization that full embraced and acted upon the 1994 International Conference of Population and Development Programme of Action in her vision and direction for the Federation. Her leadership ran until 2002 during which time she was the architect of IPPF’s landmark Charter on Sexual and Reproductive Rights, and was passionate in her promotion of young people being at the heart of IPPF’s policies and programmes. In her staunch defense of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Ms Brüggemann was the embodiment of the ‘Brave and Angry’ movement of women leaders that overhauled the thinking and practice around population policy and sexual and reproductive health and paved the way for the next generation.  Ingar was a true visionary, leader, and unapologetic disruptor in the SRHR movement, where her legacy will continue to live on through the work of IPPF. Ingar Brüggemann 3 October 1933 - 7 September 2021

BLUE BACKGROUND
news item

| 17 August 2021

IPPF's statement on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan

On the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:   "The International Planned Parenthood (IPPF) is deeply concerned about the situation unfolding in Afghanistan and asks those in power to preserve the enormous gains made in life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare for Afghan women and girls, and to continue working with the partners and NGOs that provide these services.    "Equally, the UK Government retains a significant responsibility to the Afghan people and, in the words of Boris Johnson, must not turn its back on Afghanistan. Once again, IPPF implores the government to urgently reinstate critical overseas aid funding, which it deliberately chose to remove from Afghanistan when it was most needed.   "We also ask the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, including IPPF's partners, who, despite the dangers, continue to provide life-saving healthcare to those in need."

BLUE BACKGROUND
news_item

| 17 August 2021

IPPF's statement on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan

On the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:   "The International Planned Parenthood (IPPF) is deeply concerned about the situation unfolding in Afghanistan and asks those in power to preserve the enormous gains made in life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare for Afghan women and girls, and to continue working with the partners and NGOs that provide these services.    "Equally, the UK Government retains a significant responsibility to the Afghan people and, in the words of Boris Johnson, must not turn its back on Afghanistan. Once again, IPPF implores the government to urgently reinstate critical overseas aid funding, which it deliberately chose to remove from Afghanistan when it was most needed.   "We also ask the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, including IPPF's partners, who, despite the dangers, continue to provide life-saving healthcare to those in need."

pride flag
news item

| 28 July 2021

IPPF condemns violence at Georgia’s LGBTIQ Pride event

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) strongly condemns the violence directed towards the LGBTIQ community and media representatives earlier this month. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities to investigate the violence, and hold all perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law. IPPF is also concerned at reports of inaction by the police during the violence. On 5 July 2021, the participants of LGBTIQ Tbilisi Pride and their allies, as well as journalists covering the Pride, were unable to exercise their rights, and instead faced imminent threats to their safety. Violence against them resulted in severe injuries and the death of one journalist. Georgia’s national law prohibits all discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. The country has ratified the core international human rights conventions that guarantee freedom and independence of media, and bans discrimination against LGBTIQ persons, the same way they forbid discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or political conviction. The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression constitute key universal human rights and are assured under the Georgian Constitution.  These values are enshrined in the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and the European Convention on Human Rights. Under the Association Agreement with the EU, Georgia has committed to strengthen respect for democratic principles, the rule of law and good governance, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including media freedom and the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and to contribute to consolidating domestic political reforms. Nino Tsuleiskiri, Director of HERA XXI, IPPF’s Member Association in Georgia, commented: “The direct refusal of the Ministry of Interior to address the mounting violence has resulted in a tragic escalation of violence against media representatives in the past weeks. We call on the Georgian government and authorities to assume responsibility and ensure safe and stigma free environment for every citizen of Georgia.   The right to life, right to health, as well as access to safe and adequate services have been hampered by ongoing hate-motivated violent attacks on members and allies of LGBTIQ community in Georgia. All persons have a right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, which includes the underlying determinants of health and access to sexual health care for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all sexual concerns, problems and disorders in a stigma free environment.” Tor-Hugne Olsen, Head of the Sexual and Gender Center of the International Planned Parenthood Federation European Network (IPPF EN) added: “For people to attain the highest standard of health, they must first be empowered to exercise choice in their sexual and reproductive lives; they must feel confident and safe in expressing their own sexual identity – this is a human right. The attack on the LGBTIQ community in Georgia shows us that there is still much work to be done to ensure those rights are realized for all. Sexuality is a natural and precious aspect of life, an essential and fundamental part of our humanity and must be protected.” Intensified rhetoric against rights increases the vulnerability of Georgia’s democracy, which already faces significant disinformation challenges. No measures have been taken by the government of Georgia to prevent or deter hate driven speech, provide sufficient protection as violent acts against activists and journalists were carried out. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities without delay to uphold the rule of law, to investigate police inaction and violation of the right to freedom of assembly, right to health, right to life, and the bodily integrity of journalists and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Law enforcement should act swiftly to protect those exercising their Constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly, to protect journalists exercising freedom of the press, and to publicly condemn violence. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a global service provider and advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. For over 65 years, IPPF through it Member Associations and partners, has delivered high-quality sexual and reproductive healthcare. and advocated for the advancement of sexual and reproductive rights in over 140 countries.  Our Member Associations and partners are independent organizations that are locally owned, which means they can deliver care and advocate for sexual and reproductive rights, informed by local context and expertise, especially to the vulnerable and the under-served.  We advocate for a world where people are provided with the information, they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and bodies. We stand up and fight for sexual and reproductive rights, and against those who seek to deny people their human right to bodily autonomy and freedom. We deliver care that is rooted in rights, respect, and dignity – no matter what. IPPF currently has 118 Member Associations and 13 partners.

pride flag
news_item

| 28 July 2021

IPPF condemns violence at Georgia’s LGBTIQ Pride event

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) strongly condemns the violence directed towards the LGBTIQ community and media representatives earlier this month. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities to investigate the violence, and hold all perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law. IPPF is also concerned at reports of inaction by the police during the violence. On 5 July 2021, the participants of LGBTIQ Tbilisi Pride and their allies, as well as journalists covering the Pride, were unable to exercise their rights, and instead faced imminent threats to their safety. Violence against them resulted in severe injuries and the death of one journalist. Georgia’s national law prohibits all discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. The country has ratified the core international human rights conventions that guarantee freedom and independence of media, and bans discrimination against LGBTIQ persons, the same way they forbid discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or political conviction. The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression constitute key universal human rights and are assured under the Georgian Constitution.  These values are enshrined in the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and the European Convention on Human Rights. Under the Association Agreement with the EU, Georgia has committed to strengthen respect for democratic principles, the rule of law and good governance, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including media freedom and the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and to contribute to consolidating domestic political reforms. Nino Tsuleiskiri, Director of HERA XXI, IPPF’s Member Association in Georgia, commented: “The direct refusal of the Ministry of Interior to address the mounting violence has resulted in a tragic escalation of violence against media representatives in the past weeks. We call on the Georgian government and authorities to assume responsibility and ensure safe and stigma free environment for every citizen of Georgia.   The right to life, right to health, as well as access to safe and adequate services have been hampered by ongoing hate-motivated violent attacks on members and allies of LGBTIQ community in Georgia. All persons have a right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, which includes the underlying determinants of health and access to sexual health care for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all sexual concerns, problems and disorders in a stigma free environment.” Tor-Hugne Olsen, Head of the Sexual and Gender Center of the International Planned Parenthood Federation European Network (IPPF EN) added: “For people to attain the highest standard of health, they must first be empowered to exercise choice in their sexual and reproductive lives; they must feel confident and safe in expressing their own sexual identity – this is a human right. The attack on the LGBTIQ community in Georgia shows us that there is still much work to be done to ensure those rights are realized for all. Sexuality is a natural and precious aspect of life, an essential and fundamental part of our humanity and must be protected.” Intensified rhetoric against rights increases the vulnerability of Georgia’s democracy, which already faces significant disinformation challenges. No measures have been taken by the government of Georgia to prevent or deter hate driven speech, provide sufficient protection as violent acts against activists and journalists were carried out. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities without delay to uphold the rule of law, to investigate police inaction and violation of the right to freedom of assembly, right to health, right to life, and the bodily integrity of journalists and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Law enforcement should act swiftly to protect those exercising their Constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly, to protect journalists exercising freedom of the press, and to publicly condemn violence. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a global service provider and advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. For over 65 years, IPPF through it Member Associations and partners, has delivered high-quality sexual and reproductive healthcare. and advocated for the advancement of sexual and reproductive rights in over 140 countries.  Our Member Associations and partners are independent organizations that are locally owned, which means they can deliver care and advocate for sexual and reproductive rights, informed by local context and expertise, especially to the vulnerable and the under-served.  We advocate for a world where people are provided with the information, they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and bodies. We stand up and fight for sexual and reproductive rights, and against those who seek to deny people their human right to bodily autonomy and freedom. We deliver care that is rooted in rights, respect, and dignity – no matter what. IPPF currently has 118 Member Associations and 13 partners.

news item

| 16 July 2021

IPPF considers legal action against UK Government's decision to cut IPPF’s funding

London, Friday 16th July 2021 - The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has today revealed it has sent a pre-action letter to the Government following the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) termination of IPPF’s ACCESS project funding, based on the Government’s unlawful decision to cut the foreign aid budget.  The UK's foreign aid spending is enshrined at 0.7% of GNI in the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015. The Government’s cuts, which reduce aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) and amount to a staggering £4.5 billion, will have a catastrophic impact on millions of the world's most vulnerable people, especially women and girls who have now been consigned to a bleak and uncertain future.  Having sought legal advice, IPPF believe that the Government's unilateral decision to reduce the percentage of GNI without amending the primary legislation under the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015 is unlawful, making any decision of the FCDO based on the cuts unlawful too. Under the proposed aid reduction, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million in funding over the next three years despite an Accountable Grant Agreement (AGA) with the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health service delivery until December 2023. Under the AGA, the FCDO was committed to providing up to £21 million for the U.K. Aid Connect ACCESS Consortium's efforts to enhance the sexual and reproductive health rights of some of the world's most marginalised and underserved people, including those living in extreme poverty, those living in humanitarian crises and those affected by HIV and AIDS. The consortium, led by the IPPF, specifically focused on providing support to groups in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The vote taken on Tuesday in the House of Commons was not capable of legally amending the primary legislation,  a necessary step for making the cuts lawful. Unless the Government reverses its position, IPPF will proceed with filing for a judicial review. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, Director-General of the International Planned Parenthood Federation, said: "Since IPPF became aware of the Government's plans to slash the U.K.'s aid budget, it has taken every opportunity to demonstrate the unlawfulness of these cuts and the catastrophic impact they will have on millions of women, girls and marginalized people worldwide, and the thousands of lives that will be lost in the process.    "Sadly, the Government has not heeded our warnings, instead choosing to terminate the ACCESS grant. This means IPPF has been forced to send a pre-action letter to the Secretary of State, seeking an urgent review of the decision. We were further disappointed with yesterday’s motion in the House of Commons to introduce long lasting changes without going through due legislative process.   "IPPF has not taken this decision lightly. This action is about fighting the injustice of the Government's ruling on behalf of the women and girls we serve and honouring the intent of IPPF and its member associations." In addition to the decision IPPF is seeking to have reviewed, the Government’s unlawful cuts to the foreign aid budget have had wider effects on IPPF. In total, IPPF could lose up to £72 million in funding over the next three years despite a commitment from the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health care delivery. The loss of funding for IPPF means massive reductions and the potential closure of the U.K.'s flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme. This hugely successful 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. If allowed to continue operating until 2023, it would prevent an additional 7.5 million unintended pregnancies, 2.7 million unsafe abortions and 22,000 maternal deaths. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D'Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Mozambique, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional nine countries, withdrawing support for sexual and reproductive health 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. IPPF invites the Secretary of State to reinstate the aid budget and confirm the Government's commitment to the 0.7% aid target as a means of keeping its legally binding promises to millions of people worldwide. Notes to Editors: The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a UK based charity committed to providing sexual and reproductive support to the world's most under-served communities. The IPPF operates in 142 countries, relies on volunteers and regularly receives financial support for national governments to support their global work.  Under the FCDO's unlawful reduction of UK foreign aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million earmarked for support to vulnerable communities in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The IPPF’s case against the Government is independently financed and no taxpayer money is being used to fund legal costs.

news_item

| 16 July 2021

IPPF considers legal action against UK Government's decision to cut IPPF’s funding

London, Friday 16th July 2021 - The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has today revealed it has sent a pre-action letter to the Government following the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) termination of IPPF’s ACCESS project funding, based on the Government’s unlawful decision to cut the foreign aid budget.  The UK's foreign aid spending is enshrined at 0.7% of GNI in the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015. The Government’s cuts, which reduce aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) and amount to a staggering £4.5 billion, will have a catastrophic impact on millions of the world's most vulnerable people, especially women and girls who have now been consigned to a bleak and uncertain future.  Having sought legal advice, IPPF believe that the Government's unilateral decision to reduce the percentage of GNI without amending the primary legislation under the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015 is unlawful, making any decision of the FCDO based on the cuts unlawful too. Under the proposed aid reduction, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million in funding over the next three years despite an Accountable Grant Agreement (AGA) with the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health service delivery until December 2023. Under the AGA, the FCDO was committed to providing up to £21 million for the U.K. Aid Connect ACCESS Consortium's efforts to enhance the sexual and reproductive health rights of some of the world's most marginalised and underserved people, including those living in extreme poverty, those living in humanitarian crises and those affected by HIV and AIDS. The consortium, led by the IPPF, specifically focused on providing support to groups in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The vote taken on Tuesday in the House of Commons was not capable of legally amending the primary legislation,  a necessary step for making the cuts lawful. Unless the Government reverses its position, IPPF will proceed with filing for a judicial review. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, Director-General of the International Planned Parenthood Federation, said: "Since IPPF became aware of the Government's plans to slash the U.K.'s aid budget, it has taken every opportunity to demonstrate the unlawfulness of these cuts and the catastrophic impact they will have on millions of women, girls and marginalized people worldwide, and the thousands of lives that will be lost in the process.    "Sadly, the Government has not heeded our warnings, instead choosing to terminate the ACCESS grant. This means IPPF has been forced to send a pre-action letter to the Secretary of State, seeking an urgent review of the decision. We were further disappointed with yesterday’s motion in the House of Commons to introduce long lasting changes without going through due legislative process.   "IPPF has not taken this decision lightly. This action is about fighting the injustice of the Government's ruling on behalf of the women and girls we serve and honouring the intent of IPPF and its member associations." In addition to the decision IPPF is seeking to have reviewed, the Government’s unlawful cuts to the foreign aid budget have had wider effects on IPPF. In total, IPPF could lose up to £72 million in funding over the next three years despite a commitment from the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health care delivery. The loss of funding for IPPF means massive reductions and the potential closure of the U.K.'s flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme. This hugely successful 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. If allowed to continue operating until 2023, it would prevent an additional 7.5 million unintended pregnancies, 2.7 million unsafe abortions and 22,000 maternal deaths. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D'Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Mozambique, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional nine countries, withdrawing support for sexual and reproductive health 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. IPPF invites the Secretary of State to reinstate the aid budget and confirm the Government's commitment to the 0.7% aid target as a means of keeping its legally binding promises to millions of people worldwide. Notes to Editors: The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a UK based charity committed to providing sexual and reproductive support to the world's most under-served communities. The IPPF operates in 142 countries, relies on volunteers and regularly receives financial support for national governments to support their global work.  Under the FCDO's unlawful reduction of UK foreign aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million earmarked for support to vulnerable communities in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The IPPF’s case against the Government is independently financed and no taxpayer money is being used to fund legal costs.

Gender Equality Forum logo
news item

| 02 July 2021

IPPF announces new commitments to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at the Generation Equality Forum

The Generation Equality Forum (GEF) is a global multi-stakeholder platform to reignite the worldwide commitment for gender equality, convened by UN Women and the governments of Mexico and France. The Forum kicked off in Mexico City, Mexico, on 29 – 31 March 2021, and culminated in Paris, France, on 30 June – 2 July 2021, with the aim of securing a set of concrete, ambitious, and transformative commitments to achieve irreversible progress towards gender equality; bringing together governments, civil society organizations, young people-led organizations, the private sector and foundations to define and announce ambitious investments and policies on a range of priority areas, from climate change to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender-based violence, feminist movements, technology and economic justice.   IPPF is proud to be one of the co-leads of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy & SRHR, which aims to:  Expand access to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in and out of school  Increase qualitative access to contraception  Empower all people, including adolescents and women, in all their diversity to make autonomous choices about their bodies, sexuality and reproduction  Strengthen girls, women’s and feminist organizations and networks to promote and protect bodily autonomy and SRHR.  IPPF has joined the two collective commitments of this Action Coalition on abortion and CSE.  IPPF’s individual commitment at GEF  By 2026, IPPF commits to work to accelerate universal access to safe abortion care centered on three principles – rights-based, reproductive justice and gender transformative – with a focus on the following strategies:   Expand and improve the provision of abortion care through 102 Member Associations, including quality medical and surgical abortion, person-centered abortion self-care support, and abortion care beyond 12 weeks of gestation through a simplified outpatient model using task-shifting to mid-level providers, including self-managed medical abortion.   Fully integrate abortion care into humanitarian preparedness and response as full realization of SRHR, with all IPPF emergency responses providing abortion care as a standard part of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP).  Advocate for the decriminalization of abortion and the removal of coercive policies and legislation on abortion in 25 countries, and advocate to donor governments and agencies to remove restrictions preventing work and dialogue on abortion, including the permanent repeal of the Global Gag Rule.  IPPF is also pleased to announce that it will be working with the Governments of Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands to help realize universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights and CSE.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:  “Since Beijing, progress has been made towards gender equality, yet not a single country can claim to have achieved it. It’s simple; women and girls cannot wait any longer to live a life free from discrimination, free from gender-based violence and free from harmful patriarchal gender norms – we must replace rhetoric with meaningful action.   "As co-leaders of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy and SRHR, we are convinced that you cannot achieve gender equality without SRHR, and urge that it be at the center of policies and decision-making processes. IPPF, alongside its partners and Member Associations, will turn our commitments into meaningful action that accelerates our shared goal of achieving gender equality.”  IPPF’s Global Advocacy Director, Anamaria Bejar, added:  “Women and girls cannot afford more broken promises. Now is the time to renew our determination to make the Beijing Platform for Action a reality for every woman and girl in the world, to live with dignity and reach their full potential. That is why IPPF wholeheartedly support the Generation Equality Forum and what it stands for. Together, we can meaningfully work towards gender equality in our lifetime.” 

Gender Equality Forum logo
news_item

| 02 July 2021

IPPF announces new commitments to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at the Generation Equality Forum

The Generation Equality Forum (GEF) is a global multi-stakeholder platform to reignite the worldwide commitment for gender equality, convened by UN Women and the governments of Mexico and France. The Forum kicked off in Mexico City, Mexico, on 29 – 31 March 2021, and culminated in Paris, France, on 30 June – 2 July 2021, with the aim of securing a set of concrete, ambitious, and transformative commitments to achieve irreversible progress towards gender equality; bringing together governments, civil society organizations, young people-led organizations, the private sector and foundations to define and announce ambitious investments and policies on a range of priority areas, from climate change to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender-based violence, feminist movements, technology and economic justice.   IPPF is proud to be one of the co-leads of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy & SRHR, which aims to:  Expand access to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in and out of school  Increase qualitative access to contraception  Empower all people, including adolescents and women, in all their diversity to make autonomous choices about their bodies, sexuality and reproduction  Strengthen girls, women’s and feminist organizations and networks to promote and protect bodily autonomy and SRHR.  IPPF has joined the two collective commitments of this Action Coalition on abortion and CSE.  IPPF’s individual commitment at GEF  By 2026, IPPF commits to work to accelerate universal access to safe abortion care centered on three principles – rights-based, reproductive justice and gender transformative – with a focus on the following strategies:   Expand and improve the provision of abortion care through 102 Member Associations, including quality medical and surgical abortion, person-centered abortion self-care support, and abortion care beyond 12 weeks of gestation through a simplified outpatient model using task-shifting to mid-level providers, including self-managed medical abortion.   Fully integrate abortion care into humanitarian preparedness and response as full realization of SRHR, with all IPPF emergency responses providing abortion care as a standard part of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP).  Advocate for the decriminalization of abortion and the removal of coercive policies and legislation on abortion in 25 countries, and advocate to donor governments and agencies to remove restrictions preventing work and dialogue on abortion, including the permanent repeal of the Global Gag Rule.  IPPF is also pleased to announce that it will be working with the Governments of Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands to help realize universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights and CSE.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:  “Since Beijing, progress has been made towards gender equality, yet not a single country can claim to have achieved it. It’s simple; women and girls cannot wait any longer to live a life free from discrimination, free from gender-based violence and free from harmful patriarchal gender norms – we must replace rhetoric with meaningful action.   "As co-leaders of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy and SRHR, we are convinced that you cannot achieve gender equality without SRHR, and urge that it be at the center of policies and decision-making processes. IPPF, alongside its partners and Member Associations, will turn our commitments into meaningful action that accelerates our shared goal of achieving gender equality.”  IPPF’s Global Advocacy Director, Anamaria Bejar, added:  “Women and girls cannot afford more broken promises. Now is the time to renew our determination to make the Beijing Platform for Action a reality for every woman and girl in the world, to live with dignity and reach their full potential. That is why IPPF wholeheartedly support the Generation Equality Forum and what it stands for. Together, we can meaningfully work towards gender equality in our lifetime.” 

nairobi cover
news item

| 04 November 2022

IPPF celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit (HLC). The commission is a full independent advisory board comprised of 26 members from different sectors, tasked with monitoring progress on The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action.  Whilst we acknowledge that some progress has been made, IPPF regrets to read that no region is on track to fully implement and deliver on their ICPD commitments.   Monitoring the implementation of life-saving sexual and reproductive health and gender-responsive services is crucial to ensure accountability and human rights for all. This is why IPPF launched its ICPD+25 Nairobi Summit report - A roadmap to fulfilling the promise, and our ICPD commitments tracker database, which analyses the commitments made by governments of 137 countries who participated in the Nairobi summit in 2019 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the ICPD Programme of Action.   IPPF fully supports the sexual and reproductive justice frame and is committed to following the recommendations of the call to action of the report:  1) making justice the end goal,   (2) putting rights and development at the core of action,   (3) thinking differently and pursuing innovations in health-care service delivery,   (4) reaching further and prioritizing marginalized groups facing the worst disparities in terms of sexual and reproductive justice,   (5) tracking and increasing funding for SRHR, and   (6) creating new narratives around sexual and reproductive justice that are accurate and powerful enough to counter ongoing oppositional voices.  Anamaria Bejar, Global Director of Advocacy said:  “We are facing a critical crossroad – the report makes it clear that governments need to act now and fast. Sexual and reproductive health and rights can no longer hang in the balance; they are non-negotiable. The pandemic has shown us just how fragile access to sexual and reproductive health services is, and how the opposition has used the cover of covid to attack hard-won rights including access to safe abortion care. IPPF Member Associations will continue to deliver on our commitments to ensuring that everyone, no matter where they are or who they are, access high-quality healthcare and realize their full rights." Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General added:  “The report is a sobering reminder that we are far from reaching the commitments made at ICPD. Cairo was a historic moment for sexual and reproductive health and rights, but over 25 years later, we are still falling short of its vision, and have made little progress since Nairobi. Women, girls, and people from marginalized communities cannot wait any longer, nor should they. Governments need to do more; this means more financial investment, more political will, and a sense of urgency to get us back on track.” 

nairobi cover
news_item

| 15 November 2021

IPPF celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) celebrates the launch of the first report of the High-Level Commission on the Nairobi Summit (HLC). The commission is a full independent advisory board comprised of 26 members from different sectors, tasked with monitoring progress on The International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action.  Whilst we acknowledge that some progress has been made, IPPF regrets to read that no region is on track to fully implement and deliver on their ICPD commitments.   Monitoring the implementation of life-saving sexual and reproductive health and gender-responsive services is crucial to ensure accountability and human rights for all. This is why IPPF launched its ICPD+25 Nairobi Summit report - A roadmap to fulfilling the promise, and our ICPD commitments tracker database, which analyses the commitments made by governments of 137 countries who participated in the Nairobi summit in 2019 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the ICPD Programme of Action.   IPPF fully supports the sexual and reproductive justice frame and is committed to following the recommendations of the call to action of the report:  1) making justice the end goal,   (2) putting rights and development at the core of action,   (3) thinking differently and pursuing innovations in health-care service delivery,   (4) reaching further and prioritizing marginalized groups facing the worst disparities in terms of sexual and reproductive justice,   (5) tracking and increasing funding for SRHR, and   (6) creating new narratives around sexual and reproductive justice that are accurate and powerful enough to counter ongoing oppositional voices.  Anamaria Bejar, Global Director of Advocacy said:  “We are facing a critical crossroad – the report makes it clear that governments need to act now and fast. Sexual and reproductive health and rights can no longer hang in the balance; they are non-negotiable. The pandemic has shown us just how fragile access to sexual and reproductive health services is, and how the opposition has used the cover of covid to attack hard-won rights including access to safe abortion care. IPPF Member Associations will continue to deliver on our commitments to ensuring that everyone, no matter where they are or who they are, access high-quality healthcare and realize their full rights." Dr Alvaro Bermejo, IPPF’s Director-General added:  “The report is a sobering reminder that we are far from reaching the commitments made at ICPD. Cairo was a historic moment for sexual and reproductive health and rights, but over 25 years later, we are still falling short of its vision, and have made little progress since Nairobi. Women, girls, and people from marginalized communities cannot wait any longer, nor should they. Governments need to do more; this means more financial investment, more political will, and a sense of urgency to get us back on track.” 

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann
news item

| 13 September 2021

IPPF is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, former IPPF Director-General

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, who led IPPF as its Director-General from 1995-2002. Under her leadership, she accelerated IPPF’s transition into a dynamic and progressive organization that full embraced and acted upon the 1994 International Conference of Population and Development Programme of Action in her vision and direction for the Federation. Her leadership ran until 2002 during which time she was the architect of IPPF’s landmark Charter on Sexual and Reproductive Rights, and was passionate in her promotion of young people being at the heart of IPPF’s policies and programmes. In her staunch defense of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Ms Brüggemann was the embodiment of the ‘Brave and Angry’ movement of women leaders that overhauled the thinking and practice around population policy and sexual and reproductive health and paved the way for the next generation.  Ingar was a true visionary, leader, and unapologetic disruptor in the SRHR movement, where her legacy will continue to live on through the work of IPPF. Ingar Brüggemann 3 October 1933 - 7 September 2021

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann
news_item

| 13 September 2021

IPPF is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, former IPPF Director-General

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Ingar Brüggemann, who led IPPF as its Director-General from 1995-2002. Under her leadership, she accelerated IPPF’s transition into a dynamic and progressive organization that full embraced and acted upon the 1994 International Conference of Population and Development Programme of Action in her vision and direction for the Federation. Her leadership ran until 2002 during which time she was the architect of IPPF’s landmark Charter on Sexual and Reproductive Rights, and was passionate in her promotion of young people being at the heart of IPPF’s policies and programmes. In her staunch defense of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Ms Brüggemann was the embodiment of the ‘Brave and Angry’ movement of women leaders that overhauled the thinking and practice around population policy and sexual and reproductive health and paved the way for the next generation.  Ingar was a true visionary, leader, and unapologetic disruptor in the SRHR movement, where her legacy will continue to live on through the work of IPPF. Ingar Brüggemann 3 October 1933 - 7 September 2021

BLUE BACKGROUND
news item

| 17 August 2021

IPPF's statement on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan

On the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:   "The International Planned Parenthood (IPPF) is deeply concerned about the situation unfolding in Afghanistan and asks those in power to preserve the enormous gains made in life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare for Afghan women and girls, and to continue working with the partners and NGOs that provide these services.    "Equally, the UK Government retains a significant responsibility to the Afghan people and, in the words of Boris Johnson, must not turn its back on Afghanistan. Once again, IPPF implores the government to urgently reinstate critical overseas aid funding, which it deliberately chose to remove from Afghanistan when it was most needed.   "We also ask the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, including IPPF's partners, who, despite the dangers, continue to provide life-saving healthcare to those in need."

BLUE BACKGROUND
news_item

| 17 August 2021

IPPF's statement on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan

On the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:   "The International Planned Parenthood (IPPF) is deeply concerned about the situation unfolding in Afghanistan and asks those in power to preserve the enormous gains made in life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare for Afghan women and girls, and to continue working with the partners and NGOs that provide these services.    "Equally, the UK Government retains a significant responsibility to the Afghan people and, in the words of Boris Johnson, must not turn its back on Afghanistan. Once again, IPPF implores the government to urgently reinstate critical overseas aid funding, which it deliberately chose to remove from Afghanistan when it was most needed.   "We also ask the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, including IPPF's partners, who, despite the dangers, continue to provide life-saving healthcare to those in need."

pride flag
news item

| 28 July 2021

IPPF condemns violence at Georgia’s LGBTIQ Pride event

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) strongly condemns the violence directed towards the LGBTIQ community and media representatives earlier this month. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities to investigate the violence, and hold all perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law. IPPF is also concerned at reports of inaction by the police during the violence. On 5 July 2021, the participants of LGBTIQ Tbilisi Pride and their allies, as well as journalists covering the Pride, were unable to exercise their rights, and instead faced imminent threats to their safety. Violence against them resulted in severe injuries and the death of one journalist. Georgia’s national law prohibits all discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. The country has ratified the core international human rights conventions that guarantee freedom and independence of media, and bans discrimination against LGBTIQ persons, the same way they forbid discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or political conviction. The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression constitute key universal human rights and are assured under the Georgian Constitution.  These values are enshrined in the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and the European Convention on Human Rights. Under the Association Agreement with the EU, Georgia has committed to strengthen respect for democratic principles, the rule of law and good governance, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including media freedom and the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and to contribute to consolidating domestic political reforms. Nino Tsuleiskiri, Director of HERA XXI, IPPF’s Member Association in Georgia, commented: “The direct refusal of the Ministry of Interior to address the mounting violence has resulted in a tragic escalation of violence against media representatives in the past weeks. We call on the Georgian government and authorities to assume responsibility and ensure safe and stigma free environment for every citizen of Georgia.   The right to life, right to health, as well as access to safe and adequate services have been hampered by ongoing hate-motivated violent attacks on members and allies of LGBTIQ community in Georgia. All persons have a right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, which includes the underlying determinants of health and access to sexual health care for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all sexual concerns, problems and disorders in a stigma free environment.” Tor-Hugne Olsen, Head of the Sexual and Gender Center of the International Planned Parenthood Federation European Network (IPPF EN) added: “For people to attain the highest standard of health, they must first be empowered to exercise choice in their sexual and reproductive lives; they must feel confident and safe in expressing their own sexual identity – this is a human right. The attack on the LGBTIQ community in Georgia shows us that there is still much work to be done to ensure those rights are realized for all. Sexuality is a natural and precious aspect of life, an essential and fundamental part of our humanity and must be protected.” Intensified rhetoric against rights increases the vulnerability of Georgia’s democracy, which already faces significant disinformation challenges. No measures have been taken by the government of Georgia to prevent or deter hate driven speech, provide sufficient protection as violent acts against activists and journalists were carried out. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities without delay to uphold the rule of law, to investigate police inaction and violation of the right to freedom of assembly, right to health, right to life, and the bodily integrity of journalists and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Law enforcement should act swiftly to protect those exercising their Constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly, to protect journalists exercising freedom of the press, and to publicly condemn violence. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a global service provider and advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. For over 65 years, IPPF through it Member Associations and partners, has delivered high-quality sexual and reproductive healthcare. and advocated for the advancement of sexual and reproductive rights in over 140 countries.  Our Member Associations and partners are independent organizations that are locally owned, which means they can deliver care and advocate for sexual and reproductive rights, informed by local context and expertise, especially to the vulnerable and the under-served.  We advocate for a world where people are provided with the information, they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and bodies. We stand up and fight for sexual and reproductive rights, and against those who seek to deny people their human right to bodily autonomy and freedom. We deliver care that is rooted in rights, respect, and dignity – no matter what. IPPF currently has 118 Member Associations and 13 partners.

pride flag
news_item

| 28 July 2021

IPPF condemns violence at Georgia’s LGBTIQ Pride event

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) strongly condemns the violence directed towards the LGBTIQ community and media representatives earlier this month. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities to investigate the violence, and hold all perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law. IPPF is also concerned at reports of inaction by the police during the violence. On 5 July 2021, the participants of LGBTIQ Tbilisi Pride and their allies, as well as journalists covering the Pride, were unable to exercise their rights, and instead faced imminent threats to their safety. Violence against them resulted in severe injuries and the death of one journalist. Georgia’s national law prohibits all discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. The country has ratified the core international human rights conventions that guarantee freedom and independence of media, and bans discrimination against LGBTIQ persons, the same way they forbid discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or political conviction. The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression constitute key universal human rights and are assured under the Georgian Constitution.  These values are enshrined in the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and the European Convention on Human Rights. Under the Association Agreement with the EU, Georgia has committed to strengthen respect for democratic principles, the rule of law and good governance, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including media freedom and the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and to contribute to consolidating domestic political reforms. Nino Tsuleiskiri, Director of HERA XXI, IPPF’s Member Association in Georgia, commented: “The direct refusal of the Ministry of Interior to address the mounting violence has resulted in a tragic escalation of violence against media representatives in the past weeks. We call on the Georgian government and authorities to assume responsibility and ensure safe and stigma free environment for every citizen of Georgia.   The right to life, right to health, as well as access to safe and adequate services have been hampered by ongoing hate-motivated violent attacks on members and allies of LGBTIQ community in Georgia. All persons have a right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, which includes the underlying determinants of health and access to sexual health care for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all sexual concerns, problems and disorders in a stigma free environment.” Tor-Hugne Olsen, Head of the Sexual and Gender Center of the International Planned Parenthood Federation European Network (IPPF EN) added: “For people to attain the highest standard of health, they must first be empowered to exercise choice in their sexual and reproductive lives; they must feel confident and safe in expressing their own sexual identity – this is a human right. The attack on the LGBTIQ community in Georgia shows us that there is still much work to be done to ensure those rights are realized for all. Sexuality is a natural and precious aspect of life, an essential and fundamental part of our humanity and must be protected.” Intensified rhetoric against rights increases the vulnerability of Georgia’s democracy, which already faces significant disinformation challenges. No measures have been taken by the government of Georgia to prevent or deter hate driven speech, provide sufficient protection as violent acts against activists and journalists were carried out. IPPF calls on the Georgian authorities without delay to uphold the rule of law, to investigate police inaction and violation of the right to freedom of assembly, right to health, right to life, and the bodily integrity of journalists and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Law enforcement should act swiftly to protect those exercising their Constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly, to protect journalists exercising freedom of the press, and to publicly condemn violence. The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a global service provider and advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. For over 65 years, IPPF through it Member Associations and partners, has delivered high-quality sexual and reproductive healthcare. and advocated for the advancement of sexual and reproductive rights in over 140 countries.  Our Member Associations and partners are independent organizations that are locally owned, which means they can deliver care and advocate for sexual and reproductive rights, informed by local context and expertise, especially to the vulnerable and the under-served.  We advocate for a world where people are provided with the information, they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and bodies. We stand up and fight for sexual and reproductive rights, and against those who seek to deny people their human right to bodily autonomy and freedom. We deliver care that is rooted in rights, respect, and dignity – no matter what. IPPF currently has 118 Member Associations and 13 partners.

news item

| 16 July 2021

IPPF considers legal action against UK Government's decision to cut IPPF’s funding

London, Friday 16th July 2021 - The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has today revealed it has sent a pre-action letter to the Government following the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) termination of IPPF’s ACCESS project funding, based on the Government’s unlawful decision to cut the foreign aid budget.  The UK's foreign aid spending is enshrined at 0.7% of GNI in the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015. The Government’s cuts, which reduce aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) and amount to a staggering £4.5 billion, will have a catastrophic impact on millions of the world's most vulnerable people, especially women and girls who have now been consigned to a bleak and uncertain future.  Having sought legal advice, IPPF believe that the Government's unilateral decision to reduce the percentage of GNI without amending the primary legislation under the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015 is unlawful, making any decision of the FCDO based on the cuts unlawful too. Under the proposed aid reduction, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million in funding over the next three years despite an Accountable Grant Agreement (AGA) with the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health service delivery until December 2023. Under the AGA, the FCDO was committed to providing up to £21 million for the U.K. Aid Connect ACCESS Consortium's efforts to enhance the sexual and reproductive health rights of some of the world's most marginalised and underserved people, including those living in extreme poverty, those living in humanitarian crises and those affected by HIV and AIDS. The consortium, led by the IPPF, specifically focused on providing support to groups in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The vote taken on Tuesday in the House of Commons was not capable of legally amending the primary legislation,  a necessary step for making the cuts lawful. Unless the Government reverses its position, IPPF will proceed with filing for a judicial review. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, Director-General of the International Planned Parenthood Federation, said: "Since IPPF became aware of the Government's plans to slash the U.K.'s aid budget, it has taken every opportunity to demonstrate the unlawfulness of these cuts and the catastrophic impact they will have on millions of women, girls and marginalized people worldwide, and the thousands of lives that will be lost in the process.    "Sadly, the Government has not heeded our warnings, instead choosing to terminate the ACCESS grant. This means IPPF has been forced to send a pre-action letter to the Secretary of State, seeking an urgent review of the decision. We were further disappointed with yesterday’s motion in the House of Commons to introduce long lasting changes without going through due legislative process.   "IPPF has not taken this decision lightly. This action is about fighting the injustice of the Government's ruling on behalf of the women and girls we serve and honouring the intent of IPPF and its member associations." In addition to the decision IPPF is seeking to have reviewed, the Government’s unlawful cuts to the foreign aid budget have had wider effects on IPPF. In total, IPPF could lose up to £72 million in funding over the next three years despite a commitment from the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health care delivery. The loss of funding for IPPF means massive reductions and the potential closure of the U.K.'s flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme. This hugely successful 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. If allowed to continue operating until 2023, it would prevent an additional 7.5 million unintended pregnancies, 2.7 million unsafe abortions and 22,000 maternal deaths. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D'Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Mozambique, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional nine countries, withdrawing support for sexual and reproductive health 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. IPPF invites the Secretary of State to reinstate the aid budget and confirm the Government's commitment to the 0.7% aid target as a means of keeping its legally binding promises to millions of people worldwide. Notes to Editors: The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a UK based charity committed to providing sexual and reproductive support to the world's most under-served communities. The IPPF operates in 142 countries, relies on volunteers and regularly receives financial support for national governments to support their global work.  Under the FCDO's unlawful reduction of UK foreign aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million earmarked for support to vulnerable communities in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The IPPF’s case against the Government is independently financed and no taxpayer money is being used to fund legal costs.

news_item

| 16 July 2021

IPPF considers legal action against UK Government's decision to cut IPPF’s funding

London, Friday 16th July 2021 - The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has today revealed it has sent a pre-action letter to the Government following the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) termination of IPPF’s ACCESS project funding, based on the Government’s unlawful decision to cut the foreign aid budget.  The UK's foreign aid spending is enshrined at 0.7% of GNI in the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015. The Government’s cuts, which reduce aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) and amount to a staggering £4.5 billion, will have a catastrophic impact on millions of the world's most vulnerable people, especially women and girls who have now been consigned to a bleak and uncertain future.  Having sought legal advice, IPPF believe that the Government's unilateral decision to reduce the percentage of GNI without amending the primary legislation under the International Development (Official Development Assistance Target) Act 2015 is unlawful, making any decision of the FCDO based on the cuts unlawful too. Under the proposed aid reduction, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million in funding over the next three years despite an Accountable Grant Agreement (AGA) with the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health service delivery until December 2023. Under the AGA, the FCDO was committed to providing up to £21 million for the U.K. Aid Connect ACCESS Consortium's efforts to enhance the sexual and reproductive health rights of some of the world's most marginalised and underserved people, including those living in extreme poverty, those living in humanitarian crises and those affected by HIV and AIDS. The consortium, led by the IPPF, specifically focused on providing support to groups in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The vote taken on Tuesday in the House of Commons was not capable of legally amending the primary legislation,  a necessary step for making the cuts lawful. Unless the Government reverses its position, IPPF will proceed with filing for a judicial review. Dr Alvaro Bermejo, Director-General of the International Planned Parenthood Federation, said: "Since IPPF became aware of the Government's plans to slash the U.K.'s aid budget, it has taken every opportunity to demonstrate the unlawfulness of these cuts and the catastrophic impact they will have on millions of women, girls and marginalized people worldwide, and the thousands of lives that will be lost in the process.    "Sadly, the Government has not heeded our warnings, instead choosing to terminate the ACCESS grant. This means IPPF has been forced to send a pre-action letter to the Secretary of State, seeking an urgent review of the decision. We were further disappointed with yesterday’s motion in the House of Commons to introduce long lasting changes without going through due legislative process.   "IPPF has not taken this decision lightly. This action is about fighting the injustice of the Government's ruling on behalf of the women and girls we serve and honouring the intent of IPPF and its member associations." In addition to the decision IPPF is seeking to have reviewed, the Government’s unlawful cuts to the foreign aid budget have had wider effects on IPPF. In total, IPPF could lose up to £72 million in funding over the next three years despite a commitment from the FCDO to support sexual and reproductive health care delivery. The loss of funding for IPPF means massive reductions and the potential closure of the U.K.'s flagship WISH (Women's Integrated Sexual Health) programme. This hugely successful 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. If allowed to continue operating until 2023, it would prevent an additional 7.5 million unintended pregnancies, 2.7 million unsafe abortions and 22,000 maternal deaths. Without additional funding, IPPF will be forced to close services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cote D'Ivoire, Cameroon, Uganda, Mozambique, Nepal and Lebanon and may be forced to close services in an additional nine countries, withdrawing support for sexual and reproductive health 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. IPPF invites the Secretary of State to reinstate the aid budget and confirm the Government's commitment to the 0.7% aid target as a means of keeping its legally binding promises to millions of people worldwide. Notes to Editors: The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a UK based charity committed to providing sexual and reproductive support to the world's most under-served communities. The IPPF operates in 142 countries, relies on volunteers and regularly receives financial support for national governments to support their global work.  Under the FCDO's unlawful reduction of UK foreign aid contributions to 0.5% of Gross National Income, the IPPF is expected to lose £14.2 million earmarked for support to vulnerable communities in Lebanon, Mozambique, Nepal and Uganda. The IPPF’s case against the Government is independently financed and no taxpayer money is being used to fund legal costs.

Gender Equality Forum logo
news item

| 02 July 2021

IPPF announces new commitments to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at the Generation Equality Forum

The Generation Equality Forum (GEF) is a global multi-stakeholder platform to reignite the worldwide commitment for gender equality, convened by UN Women and the governments of Mexico and France. The Forum kicked off in Mexico City, Mexico, on 29 – 31 March 2021, and culminated in Paris, France, on 30 June – 2 July 2021, with the aim of securing a set of concrete, ambitious, and transformative commitments to achieve irreversible progress towards gender equality; bringing together governments, civil society organizations, young people-led organizations, the private sector and foundations to define and announce ambitious investments and policies on a range of priority areas, from climate change to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender-based violence, feminist movements, technology and economic justice.   IPPF is proud to be one of the co-leads of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy & SRHR, which aims to:  Expand access to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in and out of school  Increase qualitative access to contraception  Empower all people, including adolescents and women, in all their diversity to make autonomous choices about their bodies, sexuality and reproduction  Strengthen girls, women’s and feminist organizations and networks to promote and protect bodily autonomy and SRHR.  IPPF has joined the two collective commitments of this Action Coalition on abortion and CSE.  IPPF’s individual commitment at GEF  By 2026, IPPF commits to work to accelerate universal access to safe abortion care centered on three principles – rights-based, reproductive justice and gender transformative – with a focus on the following strategies:   Expand and improve the provision of abortion care through 102 Member Associations, including quality medical and surgical abortion, person-centered abortion self-care support, and abortion care beyond 12 weeks of gestation through a simplified outpatient model using task-shifting to mid-level providers, including self-managed medical abortion.   Fully integrate abortion care into humanitarian preparedness and response as full realization of SRHR, with all IPPF emergency responses providing abortion care as a standard part of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP).  Advocate for the decriminalization of abortion and the removal of coercive policies and legislation on abortion in 25 countries, and advocate to donor governments and agencies to remove restrictions preventing work and dialogue on abortion, including the permanent repeal of the Global Gag Rule.  IPPF is also pleased to announce that it will be working with the Governments of Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands to help realize universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights and CSE.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:  “Since Beijing, progress has been made towards gender equality, yet not a single country can claim to have achieved it. It’s simple; women and girls cannot wait any longer to live a life free from discrimination, free from gender-based violence and free from harmful patriarchal gender norms – we must replace rhetoric with meaningful action.   "As co-leaders of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy and SRHR, we are convinced that you cannot achieve gender equality without SRHR, and urge that it be at the center of policies and decision-making processes. IPPF, alongside its partners and Member Associations, will turn our commitments into meaningful action that accelerates our shared goal of achieving gender equality.”  IPPF’s Global Advocacy Director, Anamaria Bejar, added:  “Women and girls cannot afford more broken promises. Now is the time to renew our determination to make the Beijing Platform for Action a reality for every woman and girl in the world, to live with dignity and reach their full potential. That is why IPPF wholeheartedly support the Generation Equality Forum and what it stands for. Together, we can meaningfully work towards gender equality in our lifetime.” 

Gender Equality Forum logo
news_item

| 02 July 2021

IPPF announces new commitments to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at the Generation Equality Forum

The Generation Equality Forum (GEF) is a global multi-stakeholder platform to reignite the worldwide commitment for gender equality, convened by UN Women and the governments of Mexico and France. The Forum kicked off in Mexico City, Mexico, on 29 – 31 March 2021, and culminated in Paris, France, on 30 June – 2 July 2021, with the aim of securing a set of concrete, ambitious, and transformative commitments to achieve irreversible progress towards gender equality; bringing together governments, civil society organizations, young people-led organizations, the private sector and foundations to define and announce ambitious investments and policies on a range of priority areas, from climate change to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender-based violence, feminist movements, technology and economic justice.   IPPF is proud to be one of the co-leads of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy & SRHR, which aims to:  Expand access to comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in and out of school  Increase qualitative access to contraception  Empower all people, including adolescents and women, in all their diversity to make autonomous choices about their bodies, sexuality and reproduction  Strengthen girls, women’s and feminist organizations and networks to promote and protect bodily autonomy and SRHR.  IPPF has joined the two collective commitments of this Action Coalition on abortion and CSE.  IPPF’s individual commitment at GEF  By 2026, IPPF commits to work to accelerate universal access to safe abortion care centered on three principles – rights-based, reproductive justice and gender transformative – with a focus on the following strategies:   Expand and improve the provision of abortion care through 102 Member Associations, including quality medical and surgical abortion, person-centered abortion self-care support, and abortion care beyond 12 weeks of gestation through a simplified outpatient model using task-shifting to mid-level providers, including self-managed medical abortion.   Fully integrate abortion care into humanitarian preparedness and response as full realization of SRHR, with all IPPF emergency responses providing abortion care as a standard part of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP).  Advocate for the decriminalization of abortion and the removal of coercive policies and legislation on abortion in 25 countries, and advocate to donor governments and agencies to remove restrictions preventing work and dialogue on abortion, including the permanent repeal of the Global Gag Rule.  IPPF is also pleased to announce that it will be working with the Governments of Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands to help realize universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights and CSE.   IPPF’s Director-General, Dr Alvaro Bermejo, said:  “Since Beijing, progress has been made towards gender equality, yet not a single country can claim to have achieved it. It’s simple; women and girls cannot wait any longer to live a life free from discrimination, free from gender-based violence and free from harmful patriarchal gender norms – we must replace rhetoric with meaningful action.   "As co-leaders of the Action Coalition on Bodily Autonomy and SRHR, we are convinced that you cannot achieve gender equality without SRHR, and urge that it be at the center of policies and decision-making processes. IPPF, alongside its partners and Member Associations, will turn our commitments into meaningful action that accelerates our shared goal of achieving gender equality.”  IPPF’s Global Advocacy Director, Anamaria Bejar, added:  “Women and girls cannot afford more broken promises. Now is the time to renew our determination to make the Beijing Platform for Action a reality for every woman and girl in the world, to live with dignity and reach their full potential. That is why IPPF wholeheartedly support the Generation Equality Forum and what it stands for. Together, we can meaningfully work towards gender equality in our lifetime.”