Global effects of the US elections: a threat to reproductive rights

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Im Superwahljahr 2024 droht ein Wahlerfolg der Republikaner der globalen Anti-Gender-Bewegung Auftrieb zu geben. Ein Diskussionspapier des Berlin-Instituts analysiert die Fortschritte der letzten 30 Jahre in der sexuellen und reproduktiven Gesundheit und zeigt auf, wie diese bedroht sind. Erfahren Sie, wie die Bewegung für reproduktive Gerechtigkeit dem entgegenwirken kann und welche Rolle internationale Zusammenarbeit spielt.
In the super election year 2024, the republicans threatened to give up the global anti-gender movement. A discussion paper from the Berlin Institute analyzes the progress of the past 30 years in sexual and reproductive health and shows how they are threatened. Find out how the movement for reproductive justice can counteract this and what role international cooperation plays. (Symbolbild/MB)

Together for more justice

The social challenges in 2024 throw a long shadow on global developments in relation to reproductive rights. In particular, the upcoming US presidential elections could have far-reaching consequences for the self-determination and health of millions of people. These elections are in the context of a growing anti-gender movement that gains influence in many countries and threatens the achievements of the past three decades.

The conditions for sexual and reproductive health have improved significantly since the early 1990s. An example of this is the decline in the birth rate for 15 to 19 year old girls by 50 percent. In addition, over 60 countries have loosened their abortion laws. However, this progress is in danger, since extremely right-wing groups are increasingly fighting against LGBTIQ*rights and comprehensive sex education. They use their resources and networks effectively to pursue their goals.

The way to reproductive justice

In view of the threats, it is crucial to find an answer. The concept of reproductive justice, which was shaped by black feminists in the United States in 1994, offers a comprehensive perspective: it is about reducing all barriers that keep people from their sexual and reproductive rights. These barriers can be social, economic, climatic or political in nature. In order to meet these challenges, increased cooperation between governments, international organizations and civil society is essential.

The federal government of Germany has already taken the first steps in the right direction through its feminist development policy. Colette Rose, the author of a current study, emphasizes how important it is to continue to pursue these goals. An integrated approach that combines different policy areas such as health, migration and climate protection is crucial to realize reproductive justice.

Developments in the coming year and beyond that will therefore be carefully observed not only in the USA, but worldwide. The outcome of the presidential elections could change the dynamics of global movements and be decisive for self -determination and health care for people around the world.

The need for a fairer and more inclusive future will become more urgent than ever. Only together can we meet these challenges and defend the progress that have been achieved in the past 30 years.