At Usawa Health Initiative, we are deeply committed to advocating for policies that promote equitable and accessible healthcare for all. One such policy that has had a profound impact on Uganda’s healthcare system—particularly on maternal health and reproductive rights—is the Global Gag Rule (GGR).
What Is the Global Gag Rule?
The Global Gag Rule, also known as the Mexico City Policy, is a U.S. government policy that restricts foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) receiving U.S. global health funding from providing, advising on, or advocating for abortion services—even with their own, non-U.S. funds. This policy has historically been reinstated by Republican administrations and rescinded by Democratic ones, creating instability in global health programs.
The Devastating Impact on Uganda
In Uganda, where maternal mortality remains a pressing issue, the Global Gag Rule has severely disrupted healthcare services, particularly for women in need of reproductive health support. The consequences include:
- Reduced Access to Contraceptive Services: Many NGOs providing family planning services have lost funding, leading to stockouts of essential contraceptives. This has contributed to increased unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, both of which put women’s lives at risk.
- Strained Maternal Health Programs: Clinics that previously relied on U.S. funding have had to shut down or scale back services, making it harder for women—especially in rural areas—to access prenatal and postnatal care.
- Increased Unsafe Abortions: With fewer reproductive health services available, many women turn to unsafe abortion methods, a major contributor to maternal mortality in Uganda.
- Weakened Health Systems: The policy does not just affect reproductive health. Many organizations that provide HIV/AIDS care, malaria prevention, and maternal health services have also faced funding shortfalls, impacting broader public health efforts.
A Call for Change
The repeal of the Global Gag Rule is essential for safeguarding maternal health and reproductive rights in Uganda and beyond. Policymakers must recognize that restricting access to reproductive healthcare does not reduce the need for these services; rather, it jeopardizes lives and deepens health inequities.
At Usawa Health Initiative, we stand with global health advocates in calling for permanent legislative action to ensure that the Global Gag Rule is no longer used as a political tool that endangers maternal health. We will continue to work towards sustainable, locally-driven healthcare solutions that empower women to make informed choices about their reproductive health.
Join the conversation. Let’s advocate for policies that put health and human rights first.