USAID Request that UN Remove Sexual and Reproductive Health Services from Global Humanitarian Response ‘an Affront to People around the World’

Please see below statement from Refugees International:

“Acting USAID Administrator John Barsa’s letter to UN Secretary General António Guterres demanding that the UN remove references to “sexual and reproductive health services” from the Global Humanitarian Response Plan (GHRP) is reckless and irresponsible, and, if implemented, would put at greater risk the health and well-being of millions of people who are already experiencing enormous challenges.

The sexual and reproductive health care the UN provides to vulnerable populations is essential. These services include access to contraception, access to HIV/AIDs prevention and treatment, maternal health care, and neonatal care. They are especially critical in the context of humanitarian emergencies.”   

Refugees International Senior Advocate for Women and Girls, Devon Cone, commented:

“If the United States government wants to save lives, it will support the UN in continuing this lifesaving work. Without it, there will be much higher maternal and newborn mortality among vulnerable populations, and immunocompromised people including those with HIV/AIDS will be at higher risk, especially during a global pandemic.  Given the high levels of sexual violence in conflict zones and in contexts of displacement, access to sexual and reproductive health care saves lives.”

For press inquiries or to schedule an interview, please contact Sarah Sheffer at ssheffer@refugeesinternational.org or 203 305 9880.