There was hope at the start of 2022 that this year would bring more security and stability than in the previous year.
Instead, we’ve been presented with some enormous challenges to sexual and reproductive health and rights - from conflicts, to climate crises, to the rollback of rights and the rise in opposition movements in many countries around the world.
But at IPPF, we won’t let the opposition define us. We choose not to remember 2022 solely for its setbacks.
Here, we highlight some stories of positive change from our colleagues, clients and partners around the world.
A lesson in local aid delivery
After a devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami tore through Tonga in January, localised aid delivery was essential to navigate challenges including a near total communications blackout, Tonga's shuttered borders, and the added risk of spreading COVID-19 through the deployment of foreign aid workers.
Deeply rooted in the local community, the Tonga Family Health Association provided pregnancy and delivery support, basic emergency obstetric and newborn care, post-abortion care, contraceptives, clinical care for rape survivors, sexual and gender-based violence support, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections including HIV for those in need.
Read more here.
Photo: IPPF
Bans off our bodies
In June, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, removing 50 years of constitutional protection for abortion across America.
"The highest court in the land has reached its lowest point,” said Dr Alvaro Bermejo, Director-General of IPPF in a statement following the decision.
IPPF and our partners will continue to work around the clock to protect the rights of all people both in the US and globally, fighting extremism at its core and ensuring that women and pregnant people will not be forced to carry a pregnancy or give birth against their will.
Read more about our resources and support available to people seeking an abortion.
Photo: Gayatri Malhotra
Abortion is Healthcare. Period.
The repeal of Roe v Wade was a major theme at this year's International Conference on Family Planning, the world’s largest convening of family planning and SRHR experts.
As a proud sponsor, session organizer and participant, IPPF was involved in over 30 panel discussions and events concerning global abortion rights, disability and inclusion, universal health coverage, humanitarian response and sexual and reproductive health.
Our 'Abortion is Healthcare' sign was a particularly popular photo op for the 5000+ ICFP attendees.
Photo: IPPF
Indonesia's New Criminal Code
Indonesia’s new Criminal Code was ratified in December, with several concerning developments, including the criminalisation of sex outside marriage and cohabitation, tightened regulations on contraception, and forbidding public acts that ‘violate morality.’ While the bill has strengthened provisions for abortion care, women, LGBTI+ people and other marginalized groups - already vulnerable in Indonesia - are placed at a disproportionately high risk of prosecution under the new Code.
Photo: Kate Walton
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