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2024 Highlights: A Year of Resilience and Progress in Advancing SRHR

In 2024, against a backdrop of challenges, remarkable strides were made in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across East, Southeast Asia, and Oceania Region.

In 2024, against a backdrop of conflicts, humanitarian crises, and emboldened anti-rights movements, IPPF Member Associations demonstrated dedication to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across East, Southeast Asia, and Oceania.

Reflecting on this transformative year, Tomoko Fukuda, IPPF ESEAOR Regional Director, said: “2024 was a year of challenges, resilience, and progress. Our Member Associations responded with determination, forging new partnerships and strengthening interventions to serve those most in need.”

For the secretariat, adapting to an evolving landscape meant intensifying efforts to reach underserved populations. Member Associations introduced tailored interventions for young people, enhanced Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) services in clinics, and expanded support for marginalised communities, including women who use drugs and sex workers. These initiatives reflect the collective commitment to leaving no one behind as we continue to address the region’s most pressing needs.

Solidarity For Change 2024: IPPF ESEAOR Regional Gathering and Youth Forum, Iloilo, Philippines

In a powerful display of unity, 100 representatives—including executive directors, youth leaders, and partners from 22 Member Associations across East, Southeast Asia, and Oceania—gathered in Iloilo City, Philippines, to advance Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice (SRHRJ). Under the theme “Solidarity for Change,” the Regional Gathering and Youth Forum offered a dynamic platform for presentations, panel discussions, and exchanges on key topics, including addressing barriers to safe abortion access, countering opposition, strengthening community partnerships, empowering youth advocacy, and building resilience to climate challenges. IPPF ESEAOR Regional Director Tomoko Fukuda set the tone with a compelling call to action, acknowledging progress but urging continued action against complacency in the face of rising opposition, restrictive laws, and climate crises impacting marginalised communities. “We must unite in solidarity, stand up, and speak out to advance SRHR for all, confronting these ever-evolving challenges head-on.”

Read the full article HERE, with video highlights from Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, and Day 4

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Thailand Becomes First Southeast Asian Country to Legalise Same-Sex Marriage

Thailand’s landmark Marriage Equality Bill was officially written into law in 2024, allowing same-sex couples to wed legally. Published in the Royal Gazette after endorsement by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, the law will take effect in January 2025, making Thailand the third country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, following Taiwan (2019) and Nepal (2023). This legislative milestone grants same-sex couples comprehensive rights, including inheritance, tax benefits, adoption eligibility, and equal legal protections. The Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand (PPAT) played a pivotal role in this achievement, advocating alongside partners such as the Equal Marriage Law Committee, the National Youth Council, and the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand (RSAT). Since 2018, PPAT contributed to the bill’s technical committee, focusing on grassroots initiatives, engaging marginalised communities, and educating youth on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). From 2021-2023, PPAT provided clinical SRHR services to over 50,000 clients annually through clinics and outreach programs.

Read our press statements, web articles, interviews, and video highlights.

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Landmark Rulings Advance LGBTIQA+ Rights in South Korea and Hong Kong

South Korea's Supreme Court upheld a landmark ruling recognising a same-sex partner as eligible for spousal benefits under state health insurance, marking a significant milestone for LGBTIQA+ rights. The court affirmed the Seoul High Court’s earlier decision that the National Health Insurance Service must provide equal spousal coverage to So Sung-wook and Kim Yong-min, a gay couple who sued in 2021 after their benefits were revoked. In a similar development, Hong Kong’s top court upheld rulings in November granting subsidised housing benefits and equal inheritance rights to same-sex married couples. The Court of Final Appeal dismissed government appeals, ending yearslong legal battles over discriminatory policies under Hong Kong’s Housing Authority and inheritance laws. The rulings reflect a broader push for equality in the Asia Pacific region, where IPPF Member Associations, such as the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) and The Korea Population, Health and Welfare Association (KoPHWA), have been instrumental in promoting inclusive sexual and reproductive health services and advocating for equal rights across diverse communities.

Read more about the latest updates HERE.

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New Health Law Extends Legal Window for Abortions in Indonesia

Indonesia implemented a new health law extending the legal window for abortions in rape cases and medical emergencies from 6 to 14 weeks, a response to urgent calls from activists and healthcare practitioners. While the law aims to address Indonesia's high maternal mortality rate—among the highest in Southeast Asia—it also grants police sole authority to approve abortions. This shift raises concerns about increased barriers for survivors, particularly given the stigma surrounding abortion. The National Commission on Violence Against Women highlights that many women face challenges accessing safe abortions due to inadequate information, insufficient victim support, and disparities linked to socioeconomic status, education, geography, and cultural or religious beliefs. IPPF Member Association, the Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association (IPPA/PKBI), is critical in bridging these gaps. Through 25 static clinics, mobile outreach programs, and digital platforms like PKBI-Care, they provide essential sexual and reproductive health services to remote areas, ensuring equitable access for all.

Learn more about the latest developments HERE.

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Abortion and Reproductive Justice Conference Calls for Safe Access and Global Solidarity

The Abortion and Reproductive Justice Conference (ARJC), themed "The Unfinished Revolution," brought over 300 delegates to Mahidol University, Thailand, in February. Activists, academics, and youth leaders united to exchange insights, strategise, and build solidarity on abortion and reproductive justice. The conference called for global advocacy, urging governments to ensure safe abortion access, repeal discriminatory laws, and address the intersection of reproductive rights and climate justice. Discussions emphasised evidence-based policymaking, privacy, non-discrimination in healthcare, and comprehensive sexuality education. IPPF Member Associations made impactful contributions, sharing strategies on abortion care for migrant workers in Thailand, innovative approaches in Hong Kong, and training initiatives in Cambodia. Discussions from the Solomon Islands addressed barriers to access, while youth leaders in the Pacific highlighted their role in advancing reproductive justice. The conference reinforced the collective commitment to championing reproductive rights and justice in the face of growing opposition.

Explore our content to learn more about ARJC

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Strengthening Sexual and Reproductive Health in Southeast Asia

Supported by the Australian Government, Responding with Essential Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Provision and New Delivery Mechanisms Project (RESPOND Phase II) forms a part of Australia’s Towards Universal Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in the Indo-Pacific program (TUSIP), a key initiative leveraging the combined impact of key partners working in the region –  IPPF, MSI, UNFPA and UNICEF. RESPOND Phase II will be delivered in partnership with MSI Asia-Pacific across 7 countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Laos. Australia’s investment will enable IPPF and its Member Associations to strengthen local capacity, enhance SRH service delivery, provide critical SRH information and comprehensive sexuality education to young people, and drive national and regional advocacy for SRHR. Under the first iteration of RESPOND (2021–2024), IPPF and MSI delivered approximately 19.9 million SRH services in 22 countries across the Asia Pacific, preventing an estimated 1.4 million unplanned pregnancies and 512,170 unsafe abortions and rebuilding health systems amidst the worst of COVID-19.

 Learn more about the impacts HERE.

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Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on the Beijing+30 Review

The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on the Beijing+30 Review in Bangkok, Thailand, brought together ministers, civil society organisations, youth groups, academia, and other stakeholders to assess progress, address gaps, and set priorities for gender equality and women’s rights. As the global community approaches the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) and the 10th anniversary of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, challenges such as discriminatory norms, gender-based violence, unpaid care burdens, and limited investments in gender equality remain significant. At IPPF’s side event, “Women’s Rights at Risk: Reflections on the Left Behind,” co-hosted with the Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand and the Asia Pacific Alliance for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, discussions emphasised the need for inclusive policies focused on marginalised communities. Meanwhile, “Shifting Narratives,” co-hosted with One Future Collective and ILGA Asia, during the CSO Forum, engaged 50 activists to explore strategies to challenge anti-gender ideologies shaped by traditional, religious, and nationalist frameworks, fostering solutions to empower the feminist movement.

Read our content and two major reports launched: Forging Gender-Just Futures, outlining priority actions based on consultations with civil society across 32 countries, and the Asia-Pacific Regional Report to learn more.

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IPPF-AIBD Partnership: Empowering Media to Tackle Reproductive Justice and Disinformation

As reproductive justice faces unprecedented global challenges, the role of media in fostering informed understanding and ethical discourse is more crucial than ever. Disinformation and anti-rights movements threaten media integrity and democracy, disproportionately impacting marginalised communities. IPPF ESEAOR, in partnership with the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD), developed a guide to support media professionals in addressing these issues. The guide provides insights to navigate the complexities of sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice (SRHRJ) amid rising right-wing policies and disinformation campaigns. This initiative builds on a three-day online training for 50 journalists from 17 countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Vietnam, on ethical reporting and SRHRJ content production. At the Asia Media Summit, where 400 regional and global media professionals convened, IPPF played a strategic role in shaping conversations on SRHRJ and fostering ethical and inclusive media coverage in a regional workshop for journalists from Asia Pacific.

Read our articles Media Matters: Addressing Election Disinformation and Reproductive Rights,  Empowering Media Professionals to Address Reproductive Justice and Human Rights, video highlights, and social media content to learn more.

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Japan's Supreme Court Rules Forced Sterilisation Unconstitutional, Orders State Compensation

Japan’s Supreme Court ruled that practices under the now-defunct eugenics law were unconstitutional. This ruling is a monumental win for the plaintiffs and the 25,000 others affected. The court rejected the government's 20-year statute of limitations argument, deeming it irrelevant in this case and setting an important precedent for survivors to come forward. The Eugenic Protection Law (EPL), in place from 1948 to 1996, allowed authorities to forcibly sterilise people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions, hereditary diseases, and leprosy. The law was repealed in 1996 after activists highlighted forced sterilisations at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo, emphasising that reproductive rights are human rights and underscoring the need for bodily autonomy. This ruling offers long-awaited recognition for survivors, reinforcing the principle of accountability for human rights violations and advancing justice for systemic abuse.

Read our press statement and social media content to learn more.

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Japan and IPPF Commit to Strengthen Collaboration to Promote Women, Peace and Security (WPS)

IPPF Director General Dr. Alvaro Bermejo attended the Parliamentarians’ Meeting on “ICPD30: Leaving No One Behind in an Ageing World” in Tokyo in April, marking the 50th anniversary of the Japan Parliamentarians Federation for Population (JPFP). This meeting provided an excellent opportunity to reflect on five decades of partnership between Japan and IPPF. Dr Bermejo emphasised IPPF’s dedication to reaching marginalised groups, particularly women, with essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, stating, “We contribute to improving well-being, promoting gender equality, and advancing women’s rights, which align with WPS and global population commitments.” Former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Yoko Kamikawa acknowledged the essential role of SRH services and gender equality in achieving universal health coverage (UHC), reaffirming Japan’s proactive stance and continued collaboration with IPPF and UNFPA to address global population and health challenges.

Read our news article to learn more.

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Asia Pacific Regional Seminar on the Role of Civil Society Organisations in Advancing the ICPD Agenda

Asia and Pacific Regional Seminar on the Role of Civil Society Organisations in Advancing the ICPD Agenda convened in Beijing, marking 30 years of progress. Co-hosted by the China Family Planning Association (CFPA), IPPF and UNFPA, the seminar brought together leaders and stakeholders to reflect on achievements and address evolving priorities. In his opening remarks, IPPF Director General Dr. Alvaro Bermejo reaffirmed the partnership with China, emphasising the need to tackle inequalities and advocate for sexual and reproductive justice. IPPF ESEAOR Regional Director Tomoko Fukuda presented on ‘Accelerating Progress through Partnership and Solidarity,’ focusing on rights-based approaches and the importance of inclusive civil society engagement. Key discussions addressed advancing gender equality, youth participation, ageing population, and low fertility while exploring civil society’s role in addressing unfinished ICPD goals and emerging challenges.

Explore our content to learn more.

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Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development Annual Conference in Bali, Indonesia

The Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (AFPPD) annual conference in Bali, Indonesia, in October, brought together parliamentarians, government representatives, international organisations, youth leaders, and academics from across the region. The event focused on the "Three Pillars and Beyond," commemorating 30 years since the landmark International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo. Key discussions addressed demographic shifts in the Asia-Pacific, investing in youth to leverage the demographic dividend, gender equality, ageing, and the impact of climate change on sustainable development. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to ICPD30 principles, emphasising that reproductive rights and addressing inequalities must remain at the heart of development efforts. The conference highlighted the importance of collaboration in shaping inclusive policies, advancing gender equality and human rights, and developing strategies for a sustainable and equitable future in the region.

Explore our content to learn more about these initiatives.

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Addressing Demographic Shifts: Fertility and Ageing in Focus

Addressing two critical societal shifts—declining fertility rates and ageing populations—the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK) hosted a workshop in November in collaboration with IPPF ESEAOR. The event brought together Member Associations, partners, and experts to develop sustainable and equitable strategies for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across all age groups through a human-rights-based approach. The workshop focused on understanding the factors influencing fertility rates, the SRHR needs of ageing populations, and strengthening support systems. Key discussions centred on global and regional trends, challenges in ageing societies, sub-fertility care, and addressing gaps in low-fertility support. By fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships and generating actionable insights, the workshop laid the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient future, enabling societies in the region to adapt to these evolving demographic challenges.

Read the full report HERE to learn more.

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Tuvalu Sets Benchmark, Spotlight on Regional Cervical Cancer Elimination Efforts

Tuvalu achieved a historic milestone as the first Pacific nation to surpass the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global goal of screening over 70% of women for cervical cancer. This success was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Tuvalu Family Health Association, supported by Family Planning Australia, the Tuvalu Ministry of Health, the Australian government, WHO, Cepheid, and the Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer. A dedicated local team underwent training and braved challenging sea journeys to remote islands, ensuring access to life-saving screenings for all women. By prioritising home visits as a service delivery model, the association reached up to 64% of marginalised communities, providing critical health services to those who might otherwise have been unreachable. With innovative self-testing swabs and a community-driven approach, Tuvalu meets global targets and sets new standards in women’s health worldwide.

Read our article to learn more about the remarkable efforts of IPPF Member Associations in the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, and the Cook Islands in cervical cancer elimination.

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Eradicating FGM/C: Indonesia’s Road to Reform by 2030

The Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association (IPPA/PKBI) took proactive steps to address Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) through data-driven research, capacity building, and strategic partnerships. A mapping exercise in South Kalimantan and Riau identified drivers, detractors, and community needs, with findings analysed in collaboration with Semarang University and published in an academic journal to inform FGM/C programming. Building on these insights, IPPA trained local midwives to counsel parents on the harms of FGM/C and developed educational materials to enhance community awareness. Globally, IPPA engaged with experts at the IPPF Center of Excellence on FGM/C in Mauritania, collaborating with academicians, practitioners, and activists working towards eradicating FGM/C.IPPA worked with government actors to refine FGM/C programming guidance at the national level, aligning efforts with Indonesia’s Roadmap to Eradicating FGM/C by 2030.

Learn more about the initiatives HERE.

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Fostering Inclusion Through Community Engagement and Partnerships.

The Community Engagement and Partnership (CEP) team made significant strides through collaboration, convening regional leads in Bangkok in September to establish a unified framework and identify priority groups such as LGBTIQA+ communities, sex workers, people who use drugs, prisoners, migrants, indigenous communities, ethnic and religious minorities, and people with disabilities. CEP supported the Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand (PPAT) in setting up a sex work consortium and implementing IPPF’s sex work position paper. In the Philippines, the Family Planning Organisation of the Philippines (FPOP) partnered with several sex workers’ groups, activists and individuals, including Voices for Sexual Rights (VSR), to deliver SRHR services to diverse groups of sex workers. Meanwhile, the Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association (IPPA) collaborated with SPINN, a women’s drug user network, to provide harm reduction and SRHR services. The South-South Dialogue, co-organised with the IPPF South Asia Region in Bangkok, brought together 17 young LGBTIQA+ activists across Asia Pacific to address challenges and develop advocacy project ideas.

Learn more about the initiatives HERE.

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3rd Pacific Human Rights Conference on SOGIESC in Fiji

The 3rd Pacific Human Rights Conference (PHRC) on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC), held in Nadi, Fiji, brought together Pacific Islanders of diverse SOGIESC+ to advance development justice, gender equality, and human rights. Under the theme “Pacific Islanders of Diverse SOGIESC: Working for Global Justice and Local Human Rights,” the conference aimed to build a just and resilient Pacific. IPPF ESEAOR hosted a parallel session on inclusive sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), featuring panellists from the Cook Islands Family Welfare Association (CIFWA), Fiji Disabled People’s Federation (FDPF), Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), Ministry of Health of Fiji, Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA), Rainbow Pride Foundation, and VPride Vanuatu. Discussions highlighted LGBTQIA+ vulnerabilities, advocating for inclusive policies, improved access to technology, and documenting traditional knowledge for disaster preparedness. The violent attack on Esther, a transgender woman in Fiji, allegedly leading to her death, highlighted the conference’s urgent call to safeguard human rights.

 Read our press statement and article to learn more.

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53rd Pacific Island Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga

The 53rd Pacific Island Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, under the theme “Transformative, Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” brought Pacific leaders together to strengthen collaboration and address shared challenges, focusing on building a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Pacific. In parallel, the Pacific Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) hosted the Pacific Civil Society Village, featuring exhibitions, panel discussions, talanoa, and networking opportunities aligned with the 2050 Pacific Strategy. IPPF Pacific Member Associations (MAs) were pivotal in promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders. The Tonga Family Health Association (TFHA) led a panel discussion, while broader CSO engagements produced key recommendations, including addressing CSO-specific challenges, enhancing regional collaboration, creating youth-friendly spaces, and affirming the independence of Pacific Islanders. These combined efforts reflect a shared commitment to build back better and advance the 2050 Strategy’s vision.

Explore our content to learn more about these initiatives.

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15th Triennial Conference of Pacific Women in Majuro, Marshall Islands

The 15th Triennial Conference of Pacific Women in July brought together Pacific women leaders, government delegations, feminist movements, and human rights defenders in Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands, to evaluate progress on gender equality. Held under the theme “For a Resilient and Sustainable Pacific,” the conference marked over 40 years of advancing gender parity through the Pacific Platform for Action for Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights 2018–2030. Dolores Devesi, Pacific Member Associations (MA) Support and Development Director highlighted the contributions of Member Associations under the Niu Vaka Strategy 2023–2028, delivering 125,000 sexual and reproductive health services in 2023. Member Association representatives actively contributed to breakout sessions, forums, and discussions, focusing on adapting to evolving SRHR needs, advancing gender-transformative approaches, promoting Comprehensive Sexuality Education, fostering meaningful civil society engagement, and increasing institutional investments to empower young people.

Explore our content to learn more about these initiatives.

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Empowering Change-Makers: Youth-Led Advocacy and Inclusive SRHR Strategies

The Youth SRHR Network in East, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific (YSNAP) and the newly established Youth Oceanic Consortium for Engagement, Advocacy, and Networking in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and Justice (Youth OCEANs) joined forces to address critical SRHR challenges. At the regional youth forum in Iloilo, Philippines, Dadchaneeya Ruttanasiri, Chairperson of YSNAP, highlighted the shared goal to build inclusive networks and develop actionable strategies for advancing youth-led advocacy. In the Pacific, Youth OCEANs empowers young leaders to address barriers such as limited healthcare access and cultural stigmas, fostering resilience, dignity, and collective strength. Earlier this year, youth leaders from nine countries gathered in Mongolia for advocacy training and the launch of a youth centre, marking a significant milestone in strengthening partnerships and equipping youth with the skills to drive sustainable regional change.

Read more about youth-led initiatives, articles and content.

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Meeting SRH Needs of Communities Affected by Floods and Landslides in Indonesia

Floods hit West Sumatra and Central Java in March, causing seven districts to be submerged and landslides at several points. On 17 March 2024, the Ministry of Health (MoH) Crisis Centre reported that more than 18,000 houses were impacted by the flood, with 318,943 people affected and over 89,571 displaced. In addition, main roads and several secondary roads were inaccessible, impacting affected populations’ access to health services. There was an urgent need to support the restoration of health services for those in need, including pregnant women, post-natal mothers, newborns, adolescents, the elderly, and vulnerable groups. The Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association’s (IPPA/PKBI) action was quick, mobilising the team to participate in the needs assessment and collecting public donations, which resulted in the distribution of 120 kits as its initial response. IPPA provided sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services through an SRH tent (static clinic) and a mobile clinic in each district. The response exceeded its target, reaching 17,201 people.

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Looking Ahead to 2025: Standing Firm in the Face of Challenges

As we approach 2025, the year presents significant challenges for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). A direct consequence of the recent U.S. presidential election will be the reimposition of the expanded Global Gag Rule in January. For over 40 years, this policy has been imposed by Republican presidents and rescinded by Democratic presidents. Its most recent iteration under President Trump (2017–2021) required non-U.S.-based NGOs to cease abortion service delivery and advocacy using funds from any source as a condition for receiving U.S. global health funds.

IPPF and its Member Associations remain steadfast in their commitment to SRHR and will not comply with the Global Gag Rule. Instead, IPPF will publicly oppose its reimposition, reaffirming its dedication to reproductive rights.

“In the face of these challenges, solidarity among SRHR actors is more vital than ever to protect essential services. Addressing inequalities across gender, socioeconomic status, race, and geography requires prioritising the needs of marginalised communities. Access to SRHR is a matter of equity, justice, and fundamental human rights,” added Tomoko Fukuda, IPPF ESEAOR Regional Director.

Together, we will continue to confront barriers, champion human rights, and work toward a future where SRHR is accessible to all.


For more information, contact: 

Malarvili Meganathan, 
Regional Communications, Voice & Media Advisor,

East, Southeast Asia and Oceania Region
[email protected]