From the 2026 analysis
Belgium remains in fifth place in the ranking this year, keeping us in the top 5. However, we were still in first place in 2022, and standing still is, of course, going backwards.
Although fifth place is far from bad, there is work to be done. It is good that contraception is reimbursed in Belgium until you turn 25, but given the growing trend of women having fewer children or having them later in life, it remains a good idea to reimburse contraception until women decide they no longer need it.
In addition, the Great Condom Survey conducted by Sensoa shows that 74% of participating teenagers find condoms too expensive. 31% of them have already been deterred from using condoms by the price. Furthermore, under the current reimbursement policy, men do not have the same opportunities as women, as no contraceptive methods are reimbursed for them. It would therefore be fair to make condoms free of charge. This would reduce both unplanned pregnancies and the spread of STIs.
In addition, it would be good if young people with questions about contraception could consult a professional free of charge and anonymously. In short, there is room for improvement. A place in the top 5 is nice, but let's try to get Belgium back into the top 3!
From the 2025 analysis
Belgium is falling behind in the contraceptive policy rankings.
Time for action! Three years ago, Belgium was the European leader in accessible contraceptive policy, but now we are seeing countries such as France, Luxembourg, the UK and, more recently, Portugal overtaking us. We don't even deserve a medal anymore.
How can we change this?
- Make contraception reimbursable for everyone (as in Luxembourg) or at least up to the age of 35 (as in Ireland).
- Make all emergency contraception free, including the morning-after pill (up to five days after unprotected sex) and the emergency coil (as in Portugal).
Accessible contraception is not a luxury, but a basic right. It's time to put Belgium back on the podium.