PMNCH expresses deep concern regarding the United States Government’s announcement on 23 January 2026 to expand the Mexico City Policy, also known as the Global Gag Rule.

24 January 2026

The Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (PMNCH) notes the announcement by the United States Government on 23 January 2026 of the expansion of the Mexico City Policy, also known as the Global Gag Rule.

As PMNCH has previously stated, policies that restrict access to comprehensive, evidence-based sexual and reproductive health information and services risk undermining progress for women, children, and adolescents—particularly those in fragile and low-resource settings. The evidence remains clear: limiting access to essential health services exacerbates inequities and places additional strain on already overstretched health systems.

The expanded scope of the policy, including its broader application across funding streams and new restrictions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion—including limitations on the recognition of gender identity—has direct implications for PMNCH and its partners. Many partners deliver integrated, people-centred health services and work to reach underserved populations. These new restrictions risk fragmenting care, disrupting partnerships, and constraining the ability of organizations to provide inclusive services, share knowledge, and respond effectively to the needs of all individuals.

PMNCH is particularly concerned about the potential impact on civil society and community-based organizations, including women- and youth-led groups, that play a critical role in service delivery, community engagement, and accountability. The effects of these changes are likely to be felt most acutely by adolescents and marginalized populations, and in humanitarian and low-income settings.

PMNCH remains committed to working with governments, partners, and donors to advance comprehensive, integrated health services grounded in scientific evidence, human rights, and country-led priorities, and to ensure that all women, children, and adolescents can access the care they need—without discrimination or barriers.