Bush’s ban on abortion aid opposed

Date: 24/01/02

MEMBER states are being urged to press the US to drop its ban on aid to international family planning groups that support abortion.

A year after the policy was introduced by President Bush, NGOs have warned there is growing evidence of its 'damaging' impact on some of the world's poorest and most deprived women.

The ban not only prevents US government money going to any group involved in performing abortions but also to those which raise the issue during counselling.

Now the reproductive health agency Marie Stopes International has called on the EU to back its call for an urgent review of the policy.

'The ban is having far-reaching effects across the entire sexual and reproductive health arena, with a range of activities all being hit,' said Patricia Hindmarsh, director of external relations.

Obstetrics, mother and child healthcare, family planning and infection prevention have all suffered.

'By pursuing these ill-conceived policies, which blatantly discriminate against some of the poorest and most vulnerable communities in the developing world, Mr Bush is sending out entirely the wrong signals to the global community,' said Hindmarsh.

Member States a re being urged to press the US to drop its ban on aid to international family planning groups that support abortion.