
In 32 countries, including Belgian partner countries Burkina Faso, Burundi, Mali, Senegal, Uganda, Tanzania and Flemish partner country Mozambique, IPPF member associations have indicated they will forgo funding because of their refusal to sign the Global Gag Rule.
This would mean stepping down from their rights-based approach and turning away thousands of women, men and couples in need of their support.
The withdrawal of American funding does not only affect people in need of an abortion, but effectively takes away life-saving sexual and reproductive health services from ordinary, poor and often marginalised people. In Mozambique for example, 8 projects of the member association of IPPF AMODEFA that target HIV and young people, as well as key populations such as men who have sex with men, sex workers and drug users are at risk. The loss of American funding will lead to an increase in cases of STI, HIV and unwanted pregnancies.