Nearly $10 million worth of U.S.-funded contraceptives are at risk of being destroyed in France—and people aren’t staying quiet about it. NGOs, lawmakers, and health advocates across Europe are urging both France and the EU to step in and stop the incineration of these essential medical supplies. The contraceptives, currently stored in Belgium, were originally intended for global distribution. But U.S. policy changes have thrown a wrench into those plans.
Background
At the heart of this controversy is the reinstated Mexico City Policy, also called the “Global Gag Rule.” This policy, revived under President Donald Trump, blocks U.S. aid from reaching any foreign organizations that offer abortion services or even mention abortion as a family planning option. Although the contraceptives in question were purchased during the Biden administration, the change in U.S. leadership has meant those supplies can no longer be distributed under current U.S. foreign aid guidelines.
The products? Not just condoms or over-the-counter pills. We’re talking about long-acting contraceptives—like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and birth control implants—designed to provide women in underserved regions with safer, more reliable reproductive health options.
Outcry
As the clock ticks on the planned destruction, French Green MEP Mélissa Camara has been leading the charge to stop it. She’s called on the European Commission to step up and defend women’s reproductive rights—calling it a core European value. French Greens leader Marine Tondelier echoed this message in a letter to President Emmanuel Macron, warning that France could not be “complicit, even indirectly,” in the destruction of vital health supplies.
Meanwhile, Belgium has already started talking with the U.S. Embassy in Brussels. Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot says Belgium is “exploring all possible avenues,” including temporary relocation of the contraceptives. It’s clear: they’re looking for any solution besides the incinerator.
Offers
So why not just give the contraceptives to someone else? Well, several organizations have already stepped forward.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), MSI Reproductive Choices, and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) have all said they’re ready to collect and distribute the products. IPPF even has a warehouse in the Netherlands waiting for the shipment.
Still, nothing has happened—at least not yet. U.S. officials remain undecided, and no green light has been given to release the stockpile. As of now, the contraceptives sit in Belgium, with France lined up to destroy them.
Hypocrisy
Let’s be honest: this isn’t just about policy. Critics are calling it blatant hypocrisy. NGOs argue that the U.S. government is pushing for global efficiency and cost-cutting—yet is about to torch millions of dollars in life-saving products. According to Médecins Sans Frontières, these contraceptives could prevent unwanted pregnancies, improve women’s autonomy, and ultimately save lives.
As Avril Benoît from MSF put it, destroying these products is “reckless and harmful.” And Micah Grzywnowicz from IPPF went further, calling it “unconscionable.” For many, this moment feels like a crossroads: a chance for Europe to step up as the U.S. steps back.
Stakes
So, what’s really at stake? Here’s a breakdown:
| Issue | Detail |
|---|---|
| Value of Contraceptives | Nearly $10 million |
| Products Involved | IUDs, birth control implants |
| Location Stored | Belgium |
| Planned Destruction Site | France |
| Reason for Hold | U.S. Mexico City Policy |
| EU/NGO Offers to Distribute | UNFPA, MSF, IPPF, MSI |
| Current Status | No final decision by U.S. |
Whether or not these supplies are destroyed will send a clear message about where global priorities lie. It’s not just about contraceptives—it’s about access, equity, and the global commitment to reproductive rights.
France and the EU are being handed an opportunity: protect vital medical resources, or watch them go up in smoke. What they decide to do could impact millions.
FAQs
Why are the contraceptives being destroyed?
Due to U.S. policy banning aid to abortion-linked groups.
Where are the contraceptives stored?
They are currently stored in Belgium.
What kind of contraceptives are involved?
Mainly IUDs and long-acting birth control implants.
Who offered to distribute them?
Groups like UNFPA, MSF, and IPPF have offered help.
Has the EU acted on this yet?
The EU is reviewing the situation but hasn’t intervened yet.
