Former President Donald Trump on Friday reinstated the Mexico City Policy, blocking U.S. family planning funds to foreign organizations that provide or promote abortions. Known as the “global gag rule,” the policy, introduced by Ronald Reagan in 1984, has been repealed by Democratic presidents and reinstated by Republican ones. This move follows the 2022 Supreme Court decision allowing states to determine abortion laws.
In his directive, Trump tasked Secretary of State Marco Rubio with ensuring U.S. funds don’t support programs involving coercive abortion or sterilization. Critics argue the rule disrupts healthcare access, particularly for women and girls, by denying funding to organizations even if they use separate funds for abortion services.
Policy expert Janeen Madan Keller noted the rule has historically increased unwanted pregnancies and abortions, undermining gender equality and restricting educational and workforce opportunities for women.
The U.S. also rejoined the Geneva Consensus Declaration, co-sponsored in 2020 by nations like Brazil and Uganda. With over 35 signatories, the declaration promotes women’s healthcare, family preservation, and sovereignty while opposing abortion rights.
Additionally, Trump issued an executive order tied to the Hyde Amendment, which bans federal funding for abortion in the U.S., and rescinded two orders by Joe Biden aimed at preserving reproductive health access after Roe v. Wade was overturned.
Planned Parenthood criticized the move, stating it reinforces barriers to abortion for low-income individuals and signals a broader effort to restrict access to reproductive healthcare.
Also read: Trump Administration Demands Resignations from PCLOB Members
