UNFPA sounds alarm on global contraceptive shortage

The Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Diene Keita, has warned that declining global funding for family planning is threatening access to contraceptives, with potentially severe consequences for women, adolescents, and communities worldwide.

Ms. Keita emphasised that contraceptives are vital not only for women’s health but also for economic growth, education, and gender equality.

She noted that weakened supply chains and dwindling stocks are creating a crisis, particularly in vulnerable communities.

“Contraceptives save lives. For nearly 50 years, global health authorities have recognised them as essential medicine. People want them, use them, and rely on them every day,” she said.

The UNFPA chief cautioned that funding shortfalls could undo decades of progress in reproductive health, especially in developing countries where women rely on international support for family planning.

“Health systems are preparing for a rise in unintended pregnancies, which could lead to higher maternal deaths, including from unsafe abortions,” she said.

“The impacts extend beyond health, adolescent pregnancies, school dropouts, and increased risk of gender-based violence are likely.”

Ms. Keita stressed that access to contraceptives empowers women and girls to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures.

Studies show that when women have contraception, they are more likely to complete school, secure employment, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

“Every $1 spent meeting unmet contraceptive needs yields nearly $27 in economic benefits,” she noted, highlighting the broader socioeconomic value of sustained family planning investment.

UNFPA and its partners have long worked to strengthen health systems and supply chains, ensuring quality, affordable contraceptives reach even remote areas.

Ms. Keita urged governments and donors to protect these gains, uphold women’s rights, and ensure access to family planning, enabling women and girls to plan for a healthy and prosperous future.

The warning comes amid funding cuts and global health financing gaps affecting several low- and middle-income countries, including those in sub-Saharan Africa.

Ghana’s reproductive health services also depend in part on UNFPA support to maintain a steady supply of family planning commodities in public health facilities.