UNFPA urges US to reconsider decision to stop funding

The provision in US law prohibits foreign aid to institutions involved in or supporting forced abortions or sterilizations. The UNFPA said the US made the decision because of “unsubstantiated allegations” about the facility’s activities in China that “have long been refuted – including by the US government itself.”

The fund has already received notices of closure of more than 40 humanitarian projects worth a total of about $335 million. The abrupt end to humanitarian programs will further exacerbate the burden on the already overburdened global public health system, UNFPA emphasized. For example, it will lead to a reduction in vital support for millions of people in crises. In addition, support will be lost, for example, for midwives who save lives during childbirth. Such investments are recognized as one of the most effective measures to promote development, and they bring positive results for generations.

According to the agency, UNFPA’s partnership with the United States, a founding member, has contributed to a safer, more resilient and more prosperous world for decades. “Together, we have strengthened health systems, saved millions of lives and improved the economic prospects of families and communities around the world,” the organization noted. In the past four years alone, according to UNFPA, U.S. government funding has helped expand access to voluntary family planning and prevent more than 17,000 maternal deaths, 9 million unintended pregnancies and nearly 3 million unsafe abortions.

In its statement, the organization expressed interest in continuing an open dialogue with the US government, including through the UNFPA Executive Board, of which the country is a member.

“We call on the United States to reconsider its position and reassume its role as a leader in global public health to save millions of lives. Funding UNFPA, the only UN agency dedicated to reproductive health and rights, is the most reliable way to reduce the risks of coercive practices around the world,” the document says.

The Foundation added that its staff and partners are committed to continuing their work for safety, dignity, progress and hope for all women and girls on the planet.

"We will relentlessly deliver on our mandate and our collective promise to women and girls everywhere," the UN agency said.