In Liberia, a critical shortage of free contraceptives is severely impacting the health and education of young women and girls. Rural health clinics and non-governmental organizations in places like Bong County have exhausted essential family planning supplies, including contraceptive injections. Consequently, women who cannot afford private pharmacy prices face unintended pregnancies, which often force them to leave school.
This supply crisis stems from delays by the Ministry of Health and a steep decline in foreign development assistance. Historically, Liberia relied heavily on international aid for reproductive healthcare. However, key partners are scaling back support. Last year, USAID closed its operations, while Sweden announced plans to close its embassy. Furthermore, a five-year, $176 million health agreement with the United States focuses exclusively on HIV/AIDS and malaria, excluding maternal health and birth control.
Civil society organizations warn that these financial shortages could cause severe health consequences, including a rise in unsafe abortions. Unintended pregnancies are already a major problem in Liberia, where approximately 35 percent of pregnancies end in abortion, often with severe complications.
Meanwhile, legal and advocacy efforts are struggling to address the problem. A revised public health bill remains stalled in the Liberian Senate due to debates over abortion laws. Without immediate renewed funding for family planning services, health advocates warn that thousands of women will face increasing health risks.
Difficult words
- contraceptive — a method or device used to prevent pregnancycontraceptives
- exhaust — to use up a supply of something completelyexhausted
- consequently — as a result of something that happened before
- unintended — not planned or meant to happen
- assistance — help or support given to someone or a country
- advocacy — public support for a particular cause or policy
- stall — to stop making progress or be delayedstalled
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can the reduction of foreign aid affect health services in developing countries?
- Why is access to family planning important for young women's education?
- What steps can governments take to protect essential health services when aid decreases?
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