Original Source: healthpolicy-watch.news
In the wake of rising right-wing governments worldwide, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and LGBTQ rights face significant threats. Human rights advocates and progressive donors are joining forces to counteract these challenges. US President-elect Donald Trump is expected to implement the Global Gag Rule on his first day, restricting abortion advocacy among foreign NGOs funded by US aid. His associated appointees may target current protections for transgender military personnel.
Global aid for SRH and LGBTQ initiatives is predicted to decline sharply, as Trump is poised to eliminate US support through USAID and reduce funding to UN agencies. Meanwhile, European nations that had previously increased their funding during Trump’s earlier term are also experiencing cuts due to emergent right-wing leadership or the need to allocate resources for Ukraine.
The Netherlands plans to slash its overseas development aid by nearly a third, drastically reducing grants to NGOs that support SRH. Despite being a key European donor, recent budget announcements failed to address SRH or LGBTQ topics—focusing instead on HIV and other health concerns. In 2022, Sweden cut SRH funding by 17% but continued to support LGBTQ rights.
In response to the shifting political landscape, the ILGA convened its largest international gathering in Cape Town after Trump’s election, emphasizing collective action against growing anti-rights sentiment. Concurrently, the first Global LGBTI Funding Summit raised $100 million in pledges for LGBTI rights, spurred by looming risks to global funding.
Germany and Mexico are leading the Equal Rights Coalition, yet the lack of African representation remains notable despite progressive strides in South Africa. The coalition’s efforts, driven primarily by Dutch NGOs, may now face challenges under new governance. Revered speakers at the ILGA conference highlighted the necessity of ongoing vigilance in protecting hard-won rights and countering complacency.
Human rights are integral to health, particularly in combatting the spread of STIs. UNAIDS indicates that rights-based HIV policies yield better outcomes than punitive measures. Countries criminalizing same-sex relationships see disproportionately high HIV rates among men who have sex with men, underscoring the link between rights advocacy and public health.
Amidst this landscape, certain countries prioritize mpox vaccination efforts for high-risk groups, emphasizing the need for inclusive health responses. However, others are hindered by anti-LGBTQ laws, unable to effectively address recent outbreaks. The adverse effects of bans on abortion persist, compelling women towards unsafe procedures that significantly elevate maternal mortality rates.
Even as global division deepens, individuals are mobilizing to resist anti-rights movements and continue advocating for LGBTI equality. UNAIDS notes emerging spaces for civil society and encourages sustained efforts toward expanding human rights protections. Nevertheless, a coalition of conservatives, aligned with anti-abortion agendas, poses a formidable challenge to progressive gains, bolstered by Trump’s influence. The struggle for sexual and reproductive rights remains intense and multifaceted, necessitating unity and resilience among advocates worldwide.
The article discusses the global implications of right-wing political regimes on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and LGBTQ rights, illustrating the adverse effects of changing leadership on funding and advocacy. With the anticipated cuts from the US and European governments, it highlights the critical need for solidarity among human rights defenders and progressive donors. This rising tide of conservatism presents the backdrop—for renewed efforts to protect and advance these essential rights despite the mounting political pressures.
The ongoing battle for sexual and reproductive rights and LGBTQ protections is a testament to the resilience of advocacy groups who continue to push for equality amid increasing threats. As funding decreases and conservative policies proliferate, it is vital that global solidarity persists, uniting voices across borders to combat complacency. Maintaining vigilance and engagement in democratic processes remains crucial to protect and advance the rights of marginalized communities.
