News

This year, the Trump administration has banned federal employees and grant recipients from acknowledging World AIDS Day, celebrated on the 1st December 2025. The State Department’s directive told employees to “refrain from publicly promoting World AIDS Day through any communication channels, including social media, media engagements, speeches or other public-facing messaging”.This latest directive comes after US funding cuts this year put essential sexual and reproductive healthcare, which includes HIV prevention services, at risk for millions worldwide. A global survey of Member Associations  conducted by IPPF revealed the devastating impacts on our Member Associations who provide integrated sexual and reproductive healthcare services. Over half our Member Associations were affected, with an estimated loss of $85million. The Trump administration’s decision to enforce silence around World AIDS Day demonstrates a lack of respect for the lived experiences of those living with HIV, those who died of AIDS, and all affected by HIV. This directive impedes the ongoing efforts to reduce the transmission of HIV and to address stigma, discrimination, and inequality. These decisions are not isolated from broader state driven ideologies and anti-rights pushbacks that continue to suppress the acceptance and fair inclusion of all people in society. This enforced silence on World AIDS Day serves only to further embed stigma and injustice and is another reminder as to why we must confront these moments with equal strength and clarity. IPPF supports the rights of all people in society and works to provide sexual and reproductive health services to all, in particular those who are marginalised, such as gay men and other men who have sex with men, sex workers, trans people, people who inject drugs, and prisoners. IPPF works with our Member Associations doing vital work to support those living with HIV, to end stigma, and ‘overcome disruption’ to providing essential health services to communities, including HIV testing, prevention and treatment. In times of crisis and oppression, rights and dignity need champions. At IPPF we carry this moment with our Member Associations on the ground and stand behind them in their continued dignity and fight for the right to continue the vital work they do. At IPPF we will continue our work towards a vision of a world free from HIV where everyone is valued equally, has a healthy, pleasurable, and fulfilling life within a just and equal society. Key to an impactful HIV programme is understanding and addressing drivers of the HIV pandemic, including structural barriers; violence against women; discrimination; stigma; harmful social norms; inequalities related to sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, disability, and economic status; criminalisation of HIV transmission and certain populations; and restrictive laws and policies.Due to social and biological vulnerabilities, certain groups of people experience higher rates of HIV including women and girls; gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men; sex workers; people who inject drugs; trans people; and people in prisons. Working with those affected by and living with HIV to design, implement, and evaluate IPPF services and programmes is essential on our pathway to realise a society free of discrimination and stigma, and for all people living with HIV to live healthy and fulfilled lives. A community-led and inclusive response includes both tailoring services and programmes to address the needs of communities more severely affected by HIV, as well as addressing the needs of all people who would benefit from HIV‑related services such as youth, people with disabilities, pregnant women and infants, people in sexual relationships with individuals living with HIV, boys and men, and others who may not identify as a member of certain groups. Of key importance is creating programmes, services, and spaces that are inclusive, discrimination-free, and accessible to all, where each person feels welcomed and that their health and well‑being needs will be at the centre of the care that they receive.At IPPF our Member Association’s work demonstrates what we can achieve when we lead with community-led responses. For example, in Mozambique, the Associação Moçambicana para o Desenvolvimento da Família (AMODEFA), together with sex workers, are working to ensure that sex workers have access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, with oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP*) for HIV prevention.In Zambia, the Planned Parenthood Association of Zambia (PPAZ), through a partnership between the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria—has secured 21,600 Dapivirine Vaginal Rings for HIV prevention for women. Adding the PrEP ring as an additional HIV prevention option gives women more choice about which HIV prevention method they can use, empowers them to make informed decisions about their health, and increases the chance that individuals can find a method that works for them.On Worlds AIDS day we are doubling down on our commitment and support to the communities we work with and our Member Associations who continue to provide innovative healthcare models to prevent HIV transmission, and provide vital care to those living with HIV. The work in Mozambique and Zambia are just two examples of the work that many Member Associations are implementing globally to provide essential health services to communities, including HIV testing, treatment and prevention. *Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is used to reduce the risk of getting HIV.

On November 20, 2025, at IPPF’s General Assembly in Bali, our Federation unanimously adopted its first ever IPPF Charter of Values, delivering on our collective commitment to re-examine our principles, reignite our shared spark, and push the line for justice, equality and bodily autonomy. Born from the voices and courage of our members across the Federation, this Charter is both a mirror and a map. It tells us who we are and where we stand. Together with our new Brand, it is our fire that refuses to be extinguished.The Charter sets out seven values that define our identity and purpose: Dignity, Equality, Justice, Pleasure, Community, Integrity, and Resilience. They are not abstract ideals. They are our commitment to action. They show who we stand with, and what we stand for. Louder, prouder, and bolder. United.IPPF’s new Charter of Values grounds us in a simple but demanding truth: sexual and reproductive rights are universal human rights. It states that equality is intersectional, feminist, anti-racist, and anti-ableist. That the struggle for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights is inseparable from the global struggle for justice and liberation.The Charter affirms that pleasure – in all its forms - is a right, not a privilege. That safe abortion for all is our horizon, and LGBTQ+ rights, the rights of women and girls, Indigenous communities and those of all marginalised communities are fundamental to freedom itself. It acknowledges that oppression is upheld and sustained by colonialism and imperialism, and our duty to dismantle this. It calls us to work collectively with courage, with love, with solidarity. And it holds us accountable, first and foremost, to the individuals and communities we work with.This Charter is a compass for our movement. It unites us and invites others to join. It is proof that no matter what we face, however they attack, wherever they advance, we will be there.This is who we have always been: fierce defenders of dignity, equality, and justice.Now, we have made it a Charter.We are IPPF. We are the fire. 

IPPF reported the following grant income from the Government of Japan in its published financial statements for the year 2024:   This note provides a reconciliation of the grant remitted by the Government of Japan and that reported as income by IPPF in its financial statements:We hereby offer our sincere apologies to the people of Japan and all stakeholders for any inconvenience that the above may have caused. IPPF affirms its commitment to the highest standard of transparency and accuracy in accounting and reporting to all its partners and stakeholders. Varun AnandDirector, Finance and Technology20 November 2025

Between 26 and 30 October 2025, the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) brought together 13 trans activists and leaders from across the world for an intensive four-day training and exchange in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It was a powerful act of solidarity and collective learning in the face of growing global anti-rights movements.Participants included IPPF Member Associations; FPA Sri Lanka, FPOP (Philippines), and RENEW (Bhutan), alongside the IPPF Social Enterprise (SE) Hub team, GATE (Global Action for Trans Equality), TransCore Association (Romania), Inclusive Bangladesh, GAAT Foundation (Colombia), GDX (South Africa), and Sri Lanka’s Heart to Heart and National Trans Network.The meeting focused on advancing trans inclusion in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), strengthening advocacy, and exploring social enterprise as a model for sustainability and autonomy.“Trans people have always led the way in reimagining what liberation and care look like,” said Ecile from Mango Clinic,  Family Planning of Philippines (FPOP). “Integrating trans healthcare into SRHR expands access while affirming dignity, identity, and the right to health.”Transforming services for trans inclusionThe training builds on IPPF’s recent Technical Brief: Designing and Delivering Inclusive, Rights-Based Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare to Transgender and Gender Diverse People, a milestone document that provides guidance for Member Associations on delivering inclusive, affirming, and rights-based services for trans and gender diverse people. From Mango Clinic of Family Planning of Philippines to RENEW+ in Bhutan, participants shared promising practices and strategies for integrating gender-affirming care into existing SRHR services.“In Bhutan, we are fighting for visibility, care, and respect,” said Tshering Tshokey from RENEW+. “Partnerships like this allow us to transform health systems from within, and to make them truly inclusive.”Standing firm against anti-gender movementsAcross the globe, trans communities are facing unprecedented attacks: shrinking civic spaces, funding cuts, policy backslides, and violent backlash against gender justice movements. Against all odds, the trans movement continues to rise, resist, and reimagine.”Our bodies and identities are not battlegrounds: they are sites of power, resilience, and love,” said Ale Gomez from GAAT Foundation. “In Colombia, a country still healing from decades of armed conflict, trans and queer people have always resisted violence in all its forms, from the war to the streets. We carry the memory of survival and turn it into collective strength. Solidarity from organizations like IPPF fuels our struggle for freedom, dignity, and joy.”“The anti-gender movement wants to erase us,” added Tandile Mbatsha from Gender Dynamix, South Africa. “But every time we come together, we make our resistance visible, and unstoppable.”Across regions, these anti-gender and authoritarian groups have grown into a coordinated, well-funded network using misinformation and scapegoating to roll back fundamental rights for all. The global rise of anti-gender movements threatens not only trans and gender diverse communities but gender equality and justice as a whole. IPPF reaffirmed its uncompromising solidarity with trans movements, emphasizing that trans rights are human rights and a fundamental part of reproductive justice for all.Building sustainable futuresIn times of unprecedented funding cuts, the convening explored models of financial sustainability for trans-led organizations, supported by IPPF’s Social Enterprise Hub (hosted by FPASL). Participants engaged in practical training on social enterprise, an innovative effort to reduce financial dependency and strengthen the economic resilience of trans and gender diverse organizations worldwide.“Sustainability means power,” said Anwar Ogrm from the Global Action for Trans Equality, highlighting GATE's recent Innovation Lab. “Through innovation and collective learning, trans movements are building futures that are self-determined and community-led.”“The SRHR movement must support that transformation,” added Rishi from the Social Enterprise Hub. “Building financial autonomy through social enterprise is a form of resistance that goes beyond trans and gender diverse rights.”IPPF’s CommitmentIPPF’s work on trans inclusion is part of its broader mission to advance SRHRJ for all, grounded in feminist principles, equity, and justice. Trans and gender diverse groups are at the forefront of the fight for equality and justice. They must be protected, and supported. Through partnerships with trans-led organizations and activists worldwide, IPPF continues to translate solidarity into concrete action: in services, advocacy, and sustainability.Trans rights are SRHR. Trans health is a human right. Trans inclusion is non-negotiable.

IPPF, Countdown 2030 Europe, Fòs Feminista and ARROW take note of the adoption of the Political Declaration in Doha at the Second World Summit for Social Development, which reaffirms commitments to social development and social justice. The Summit offers a crucial moment for Member States to renew and strengthen global commitments to human rights and gender equality, in particular sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), as an integral component of social development. SRHR remains a cornerstone of social development, shaping health, education, and economic outcomes across generations. Thirty years after the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration, the Summit further provides an opportunity to reaffirm that sustained and inclusive social progress is impossible without the full realization of all women’s and girl’s human rights, including their bodily autonomy. The Political Declaration adopted today at the Second World Summit for Social Development lays forth commitments to advancing gender equality, particularly those aimed at dismantling gender stereotypes and negative social norms that continue to impede progress for all women and girls worldwide. Addressing these root causes is essential to achieving transformative and inclusive social development. The Political Declaration further provides commitments to address gender inequality by promoting access to sexual and reproductive health, eliminating all forms of gender-based violence, and redistributing women’s disproportionate share of unpaid care and domestic work.  It similarly highlights the necessity of integrating a gender lens in efforts to eradicate poverty, tackle its structural causes, and combat the feminization of poverty. The Political Declaration reaffirms commitments to realizing the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, including through Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and equitable access to quality health care and services for all. It underlines  the recognition of health equity for persons with disabilities, and underscores that ensuring accessible, inclusive, and rights-based health systems is indispensable to achieving social justice and leaving no one behind.However, there are several critical areas where the Political Declaration lacks sufficient ambition. Gender equality has not been sufficiently addressed throughout the text, leaving major gaps in how the rights of all women and girls are addressed across key dimensions of social development, particularly health, digital technologies, and climate change. While access to sexual and reproductive health is acknowledged in the context of achieving gender equality, the commitment fails to include the full recognition of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Realizing SRHR for all women and girls is foundational to progress across all dimensions of social development, from eliminating poverty and advancing economic empowerment to achieving gender equality and ensuring inclusive, affordable and comprehensive health services. The Political Declaration’s limited acknowledgment of this reality marks a substantive gap.Similarly, the section on digital technologies lacks a gender perspective, overlooking the persistent gender digital divide and the disproportionate risks women and girls face online, including technology-facilitated gender-based violence. The Political Declaration fails to address the urgency and impacts of climate change, including the distinct and disproportionate effects on women and girls worldwide, in particular on their SRHR. It is essential to guarantee accessible, available, affordable, adaptable, and high-quality sexual and reproductive health and rights services that respond to the impacts of climate change. The formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of all climate-related sexual and reproductive health and rights policies and services must systematically address the multiple barriers encountered by women and girls in all their diversities.Moreover, we regret that the Political Declaration does not reaffirm the commitments of the Programme of Action of the International Conference of Population and Development (ICPD) - a major step back from the Copenhagen Declaration - nor the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences. These frameworks are foundational for advancing social development and gender equality, and their omission significantly undermines the recognition of how sexual and reproductive health and rights, women’s empowerment, and social progress are inextricably linked.We note with concern that the Political Declaration falls short in recognizing various and diverse forms of families, which is critical to reflecting the reality of many family structures around the world. The ICPD Programme of Action, the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action, and the Copenhagen Declaration all highlight that various and diverse families exist throughout the world. Although the Political Declaration calls for policies that address the needs of individual family members, it fails to guarantee their human rights in this context. Moreover, specific challenges and rights violations that occur within households remain unrecognized and unaddressed, which perpetuates cycles of poverty, social exclusion, and inequality that result in the exclusion of the most marginalized, who stand to benefit the most from social programs. We regret the references to declining birth rates and declining fertility rates, without explicitly highlighting the importance of a human rights-based approach in how governments respond to demographic shifts, as this risks shaping development efforts and policies aimed at controlling fertility and birth rates, with too much focus on demographics rather than ensuring the realization of human rights. The lack of a reaffirmation of ICPD, which was decisive in terms of shifting the demographic focus and framing reproductive rights as human rights, compounds the concern of this demographic focus.Finally, we deeply regret the lack of an inclusive and transparent process for civil society engagement throughout the preparations for the World Social Summit and negotiation process. This exclusion was a missed opportunity to draw on the expertise and lived experience of civil society, whose participation is essential to ensuring that social development policies are grounded in human rights, inclusivity, and evidence-based practice.Looking ahead, it is essential that governments translate the commitments in this Declaration into concrete action, guided by the principles of gender equality, human rights and inclusivity. The realization of human rights, SRHR and gender equality is indispensable to achieving inclusive and sustainable social development. We call on Member States to ensure that future processes fully integrate these principles, uphold the universality of human rights, and centre the voices and leadership of all women, girls, and marginalized communities in shaping a more just and equitable world.

This month marks the global launch of IPPF’s new brand. This is not just about a bolder and more vibrant visual representation of who we are today, but confirmation of where we are heading together. An unapologetic reflection of who we are: feminist, community-rooted, and united by a shared commitment to equity, justice, and pleasure for all. Designed by our Member Associations, partners and communities, the brand reflects what can be achieved when we work collaboratively and in conversation, embracing creativity to show who we stand with, and what we stand for. Louder, prouder, and bolder. In a world where sexual and reproductive health and rights are under relentless attack, we are ready to meet the moment with clarity, courage, and conviction. We are proud to stand behind a brand that is a renewed expression of our shared values, our purpose, and our collective energy as a federation standing and fighting for sexual and reproductive rights for all. This isn’t just a new visual look for IPPF, it’s a statement of inclusivity, diversity, and solidarity. It’s about visibility, belonging, and building a movement that people recognise and want to join.Our brand is bold, resilient, and unmistakably ours. It is our story refined and our promise renewed as we move forward with energy and conviction to connect more powerfully with the communities we serve and the partners and donors who share our values. 

El Fasher, North DarfurThe International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) and The Sudan Family Planning Association (SFPA) are deeply alarmed and saddened by targeted attacks in El Fasher, Sudan, where Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have caused devastating harm to civilians, humanitarian workers, and SFPA staff.SFPA, a Member Association of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), reports that one staff member has been detained and nine others remain missing. One staff member previously reported missing has reached relative safety after walking for two days to Tawila. She is now receiving medical care for exhaustion and dehydration. The whereabouts of the remaining staff are still unknown, as communications and movement in El Fasher remain severely restricted.“The silence is unbearable. Our colleagues are missing, clinics have been destroyed, and women are giving birth with no one to help them. The world cannot stay quiet while lives are being systematically erased.” said Elshafie Mohamed Ali, Executive Director of SFPA.SFPA and IPPF strongly condemn the ongoing attacks on healthcare, including the assault on the Saudi Maternity Hospital, which SFPA had rehabilitated to provide essential maternal, newborn and reproductive health care. During the hospital attack, which killed more than 460 patients and their companions and led to the abduction of health workers, one SFPA staff member was present inside the facility but managed to escape.“They are bombing the very places where life begins. Maternity wards have become killing grounds. Women are giving birth under fire, midwives are disappearing, and health workers are being attacked for saving lives. We cannot continue to let this go on.” said Dr. Hiba Ahmed Khalil Badr, Director of Emergency and Humanitarian Interventions, SFPA.More than 260,000 people remain trapped in El Fasher with almost no access to food, clean water or medical care. Pregnant women and survivors of sexual and reproductive violence face life-threatening barriers to care.“What is happening in El Fasher is a brutal assault on women, health workers, and the very essence of life itself. Our colleagues are risking everything to keep women and newborns alive, while hospitals are being turned into battlefields. This cannot be normalized. The Arab world and the international community must act now, not only with words of sympathy, but with decisive measures to protect civilians, hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure that the right to health and safety is never again treated as a casualty of war,” said Dr. Fadoua Bakhadda, Regional Director, IPPF Arab World Region.These attacks mark a dangerous escalation in violence against humanitarian and health facilities. They threaten not only those providing care but also the continuity of life-saving sexual and reproductive health services, including safe delivery, contraception, and emergency obstetric and newborn care. The deliberate targeting of health workers and maternity facilities is a violation of international humanitarian law and an assault on the right to health and dignity.“This is not an isolated incident. It is part of a relentless pattern of attacks on women, on health workers, and on the right to care,” said Valerie Dourdin, Global Humanitarian Director, IPPF. “How much longer can we watch hospitals burn and call it outrage without action? The international community must act now to protect health workers, civilians, and defend the right to reproductive healthcare.”We urgently call for:• Immediate protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel in El Fasher.• Safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to all conflict-affected areas.• The release of detained and missing staff, and clarification on their situation.• International action to halt these attacks and uphold international humanitarian and human rights law.---About SFPAThe Sudan Family Planning- Association (SFPA) was established in 1965 by pioneers in obstetrics and gynaecology in response to rising maternal, neonatal and infant mortality and morbidity.As a Member Association of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), SFPA has provided sexual and reproductive health services to millions of people affected by crisis across Sudan, including maternal healthcare, contraception, and essential care for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. Despite the direct targeting of their own infrastructure, including the destruction of nine SFPA clinics and the tragic loss of healthcare workers, SFPA has continued to deliver life-saving SRH services. In 2024 alone, they reached 13.2 million people, including 10.1 million in humanitarian settings, across 14 states through a network of static clinics, mobile teams, community distributors and digital platforms.---About the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF)The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a global healthcare provider and a leading advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for all. We are a movement of Member Associations and Collaborative Partners with a presence in more than 140 countries.Building on a proud history of over 70 years of achievement, we commit to lead a locally owned, globally connected civil society movement that provides and enables services and champions SRHR for all, especially the under-served.We advocate for a world where people are provided with the information they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health and bodies. We stand up and fight for sexual and reproductive rights, and against those who seek to deny people their human right to bodily autonomy and freedom. We deliver care that is rooted in rights, respect and dignity, no matter what.

The International Planned Parenthood Federation at ICFP 2025The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is proud to be a leading voice at the International Conference on Family Planning (ICFP 2025) - bringing together partners, advocates, and changemakers from around the world to advance sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice for all.Through a powerful series of sessions, side events, and conversations, IPPF will showcase evidence, stories, and innovations from across our global Federation — from community-led service delivery to bold advocacy that defends the right to choose.This year’s ICFP also marks the global launch of IPPF’s new brand — a vibrant, unapologetic reflection of who we are: feminist, community-rooted, and united by a shared commitment to equity, justice, and pleasure for all.If you’re attending the conference in Bogotá or joining virtually, explore our events and come meet the IPPF team in the exhibition hall. Join us as we celebrate our new identity and reaffirm our promise to keep fighting - proudly, boldly, and together.

 The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Maria Antonieta Alcalde Castro as its next Director General, effective March 2026. This follows an extensive global search by the Board of Trustees in anticipation of the conclusion of Alvaro Bermejo’s second and final term.Since 2018, Alvaro has provided courageous and steady leadership through a period of radical transformation at IPPF. Under his guidance, the Federation has become more resilient, more connected and far bolder in advancing sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice worldwide.The Board undertook a robust, inclusive and independent recruitment process. With support from the international search firm Perrett Laver, exceptional leaders from across the SRHR movement applied, demonstrating the depth of global talent and commitment to our cause.From this highly competitive pool, the Board unanimously selected Maria Antonieta. Widely respected across the sector, she is a visionary feminist leader who began her career as a youth activist and has spent more than 30 years advancing SRHR at every level. She brings deep roots in Latin America and the Caribbean, extensive experience in intergovernmental processes and UN negotiations, and a proven track record of movement-building, policy influence and partnership-building.Maria Antonieta will take-up her position from 1 March 2026, for an initial four-year term.

IPPF Recognised as a Very High Performer in the 2025 Global Health 50/50 IndexWe’re thrilled to share some fantastic news from the report released today: The 2025 Global Health 50/50 Report: “Holding the Line.”The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) has been ranked a Very High Performer in the Gender and Health Index – placing us among the top organisations worldwide for our public commitments and workplace policies on gender equality, fairness, and equity! This year’s report analyses the policies and practices of 199 global health organisations. While the average performance across NGOs and non-profits sits at “Moderate,” IPPF has stood out for its consistent leadership."In the face of growing hostility to gender equality and reproductive rights, holding the line is not enough. For organisations working across diverse and often difficult contexts, staying true to our values means rooting our work in the realities of the communities we serve, not in the shifting winds of political convenience. When the space to act narrows, we find new ways to act, to speak, and to stand with those most affected" - Seri Wendoh International Planned Parenthood Federation Senior Technical AdvisorThe report also highlights the challenging context of shrinking funding and rising political pressure on health and rights organisations. Despite this, we continue to fight for progress and this achievement spotlights IPPF’s commitment to gender equality in practice. We’re proud of this achievement but know there’s still work ahead. We’ll keep innovating and strengthening our policies so that gender equality remains at the heart of everything we do.Read the report here.