U.S. enacts directive for the demolition of millions of contraceptives, potentially jeopardizing the lives of thousands in underdeveloped nations.
The Trump administration has stirred controversy by deciding to destroy nearly $10 million worth of contraceptives intended for low-income countries. The contraceptives, including implants, pills, and intrauterine devices, were meant to be delivered to nations in need, but will instead be destroyed by incineration.
The administration's stance is based on their adherence to policies such as the Mexico City Policy and the Kemp-Kasten amendment, which restrict US funding and support for foreign organizations involved with abortion-related services or materials.
Despite being already purchased and paid for, these contraceptives are being destroyed to align with the administration's stance against abortion-related family planning methods and budget cuts in foreign aid programs. The US State Department has confirmed that no HIV medications or condoms are being destroyed, but the destruction itself will cost about $167,000.
Critics argue that this decision is both wasteful and harmful. Family planning organizations and aid groups have stated that the destruction is ideological rather than about efficiency or cost savings. They emphasize that contraceptive access prevents maternal deaths and unsafe abortions in countries with limited healthcare.
Examples of US aid wastage under the administration include emergency food and vaccine stockpiles being destroyed, further fueling criticism of the administration's approach to foreign assistance.
In summary, the destruction of contraceptives by the Trump administration is motivated by adherence to abortion-related funding restrictions and a broader shift away from foreign aid programs involving family planning, despite opposition from aid organizations highlighting the humanitarian impact and wastefulness of this action.
[1] Associated Press. (2019, July 31). Trump administration to destroy millions of contraceptives. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/81a2b9e421844f23b4a20e814c71c4ef
[2] Mufson, L. (2019, August 1). Trump administration to destroy $22 million in contraceptives. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/08/01/trump-administration-to-destroy-22-million-in-contraceptives/
- The administration's decision to destroy contraceptives,IGNORING international health-and-wellness initiatives focusing on women's health and nutrition, has raised concerns about the impact on maternal health in low-income countries.
- In the realm of science, this destruction of contraceptives undermines the effectiveness of family planning strategies, a crucial aspect of global women's health and受 Save the Children 助力的慈善运动.
