Physicians Praise Repeal of Global Gag Rule

“Too many women die each day from complications caused by pregnancy, childbirth, or illegal abortion—complications that can and should be prevented.”

New York, NY—Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health today praised President Obama’s decision to repeal the global gag rule. This regulation, also known as the Mexico City policy, denies family planning funds to any foreign organization that uses its own money to provide abortion services or counseling, give information about or referrals for abortion, or speak in favor of safe, legal abortion. By rescinding the global gag rule, United States funding will once again be available for health clinics and organizations worldwide.

“This policy change will have an immediate, positive effect on women’s health,” noted Dr. Suzanne T. Poppema, board chair of Physicians for Reproductive Choice and Health. “Too many women die each day from complications caused by pregnancy, childbirth, or illegal abortion—complications that can and should be prevented. President Obama’s proclamation will help women around the globe get the medical care they need.

“For the past eight years, medical clinics have been punished for even mentioning abortion, regardless of whether they offered abortion services. This shortsighted, anti-choice policy denied funding to programs offering critical health services. Today, doctors and health workers worldwide are once again free to offer a full range of information and services to women.”