The Global Gag Rule has had terrible consequences for the health and lives of poor women and their families, in ways that have nothing to do with abortion. The Global Gag Rule has forced clinics to cut back on all sorts of health services, such as family planning, obstetric care, HIV testing, and malaria treatment. Join us in urging President Obama to overturn the Global Gag Rule during his first 100 days.
For more information, watch our
YouTube video (and shown at left) or visit our
Global Gag Rule site.
Dear President-elect Obama: The Global Gag Rule, a U.S. policy since 2001, was intended to reduce abortion overseas. In reality, it has had terrible consequences for the health and lives of poor women and their families in ways that have nothing to do with abortion. The domino effect from this policy has affected family planning services, maternal and child health care, HIV prevention, and even malaria treatment.
Research shows that the Global Gag Rule has worsened reproductive health in developing countries, and there is no evidence that it has reduced abortion incidence. On the contrary, by decreasing family planning assistance, the policy impedes the very care that helps women avoid unintended pregnancy in the first place.
Above all, the Global Gag Rule violates basic human rights and the principle of informed choice. We, the undersigned, call on you to demonstrate your commitment to women's health and rights, and to restoring America's leadership abroad, by repealing the Global Gag Rule within your first 100 days in office. The health of millions depends on it.
Thank you.
